Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder could be on a collision course, setting the stage for one of the biggest final eliminators in boxing history.
Scheduled for separate bouts on December 23 against Otto Wallin and Joseph Parker, Joshua and Wilder's victories could pave the way for a highly anticipated showdown next year. Despite being the No 1 and No 2-ranked contenders with the WBC, it's noteworthy that this clash wouldn't be for the heavyweight championship.
The WBC has confirmed to Sky Sports that the heavyweight championship will be contested in the Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk undisputed title fight on February 17. Additionally, an expected rematch between Fury and Usyk is also in the works, encompassing all major belts, including the WBC.
Mauricio Sulaiman, the WBC president, emphasized the organization's commitment to establishing an undisputed champion at heavyweight. "We've been waiting and pushing and mediating and encouraging everyone to try to make this happen," Sulaiman told Sky Sports.
The December 23 matchups, featuring Joshua, Wilder, Parker, and Wallin, might eventually produce the mandatory challenger for the WBC heavyweight title currently held by Fury. Sulaiman sees it as a natural WBC elimination tournament, stating, "After December 23, we're going to see a different picture in the rankings."
The prospect of a Wilder vs. Joshua showdown is gaining momentum, with Sulaiman suggesting that it could serve as a final elimination to determine a mandatory contender for the WBC title. This scenario, if realized, would be one of the most high-profile final eliminators in the sport's history.
"It looks like Wilder and Joshua are on a collision course. That could very well be a final elimination to determine a mandatory contender for the WBC title," Sulaiman said, expressing excitement at the prospect.
"Unbelievable. That would be a dream come true for the fans. I am very happy to see the promoters collaborating, the managers, the fighters. Of course there's big money involved but you have to make it."
In essence, this potential clash represents not only a significant sporting event but also a moment that could usher in a new era of boxing, garnering support from fans and officials alike.
Comments