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Fury and Joshua in frame for Dublin heavyweight clash
Tyson Fury could face Anthony Joshua at Dublin's 80,000-seat Croke Park in September if both fighters clear key hurdles, promoters confirmed this week.
Fury's comeback fight sets the stage
Fury, who last fought in December 2024, returns to the ring on Saturday against Russian heavyweight Arslanbek Makhmudov in London. A victory would keep the September date alive, provided Joshua does not schedule a warm-up bout this summer.
Joshua, whose last fight was also in December 2024-against Jake Paul-has only recently resumed training after a car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two close friends, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele.
Croke Park chief eyes historic double-header
Peter McKenna, CEO of Croke Park, told BBC Sport that a Fury-Joshua fight in Dublin could pave the way for Katie Taylor to realise her dream of fighting at the stadium.
"The real hope is that we will get Tyson Fury here later in the year. That would be such a world-billing event that we would be able to facilitate a Katie Taylor fight here."
Peter McKenna, Croke Park CEO
McKenna acknowledged that multiple parties-including Taylor's manager, promoter, and Fury's team-must align for the plan to succeed. He expressed confidence that all sides recognise the significance of Taylor, one of Ireland's greatest athletes, potentially ending her career at Croke Park.
Taylor's retirement ambitions
The 39-year-old two-weight undisputed champion has twice fought in Dublin but never at Croke Park. While security costs have previously been a barrier, the financial certainty of a Fury-Joshua sell-out would remove that obstacle. Taylor has repeatedly stated her desire to retire in Dublin.
BBC Sport has reached out to Taylor's team for comment but has not yet received a response.
Saudi backing and promoter talks
The proposed Dublin event is backed by Sela, a Saudi Arabia-owned production company, and Turki Alalshikh, co-founder of Zuffa Boxing. Fury confirmed to BBC Sport on Wednesday that he wants to fight Joshua next, though no formal agreement has been reached.
Previous negotiations between the two British fighters have collapsed over purse demands and broadcaster disputes. This time, the involvement of high-profile promoters and Saudi financing may break the deadlock.
What's next
Fury's performance against Makhmudov on Saturday will determine whether the September timeline remains viable. If Joshua opts for a warm-up fight, the bout could be pushed to the end of 2026, potentially relocating to the UK.
