Former heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko believes Anthony Joshua has what it takes to defeat Tyson Fury if the two ever square off in the ring. Klitschko, who has faced both guys in his career, feels Joshua’s technique, power, and discipline will be too much for Fury.
Klitschko’s backing of Joshua is especially notable because he has firsthand knowledge with both fighters.
In 2015, he lost a controversial decision to Fury, a defeat that marked the end of his reign as heavyweight champion.
The following year, he was knocked out by Joshua in an epic bout that is still considered one of the greatest heavyweight fights in recent history.
When asked who he thinks would win in a potential clash between Joshua and Fury, Klitschko didn’t hesitate. “Hands down, Joshua,” he said confidently. “He’s becoming the complete fighter—technically, size-wise, weight-wise, power-wise. And he’s a good learner.”
Klitschko’s praise for Joshua comes despite the British-Nigerian fighter’s recent setbacks, including losses to Andy Ruiz Jr. and Oleksandr Usyk.
However, Klitschko believes that Joshua’s physical attributes and dedication to improvement will give him the edge over Fury.
The former champion also questioned Fury’s discipline and stamina, comparing him to “a fart in the wind.” Klitschko’s concerns about Fury’s ability to maintain his position at the top of the sport add an intriguing element to the current talk regarding a Joshua-Fury unification bout.
Fury, who cemented his status as a top heavyweight by winning his trilogy against Deontay Wilder, is preparing for a rematch with Oleksandr Usyk.
If he wins, and Joshua defeats IBF titleholder Daniel Dubois in their next fight, a Joshua vs. Fury confrontation in 2025 might be in the cards.
Such a fight would be one of the most highly anticipated in recent memory, with fans eager to see if Joshua can live up to Klitschko’s prediction and finally topple Fury.