Billy Joe Saunders has tipped Anthony Joshua’s raw power and sharp finishing ability as factors that could trouble Tyson Fury whenever the two British heavyweights finally meet in the ring.
Despite his close ties with Fury, Saunders stopped short of picking a winner, insisting that the contest is finely balanced because each fighter brings different strengths to the table.
The former middleweight champion described Joshua as the heavier hitter with more direct punching, while praising Fury’s movement, ring intelligence and technical ability. He said the outcome would likely depend on who is able to impose their style and stick to the game plan devised by their team.
A date for the long-discussed showdown has not yet been announced. Promoter Frank Warren has previously revealed that key discussions still need to be held before any official confirmation can be made.
Joshua is expected to return to the ring first when he takes on Kristian Prenga in Saudi Arabia on July 25. The contest will be his first appearance of the year after a period away from boxing that followed personal tragedy and his victory over Jake Paul late last year.
Fury is also preparing for another outing after ending a lengthy spell on the sidelines earlier this year. The former WBC champion defeated Arslanbek Makhmudov on points in April but failed to produce the dominant display many fans had anticipated. He is hoping to have another fight before turning his attention to Joshua.
Saunders further suggested that Joshua could benefit from insights gained through his association with Oleksandr Usyk. Having watched Usyk overcome Fury in the past, Joshua’s camp may be able to use some of the Ukrainian’s successful tactics as part of their preparation for a future meeting with the Manchester-born heavyweight.
