Breaking News, Latest Updates & UK Headlines

Fury defeats Wach in Thailand, eyes potential Joshua bout at Wembley

Fury takes swipe at Joshua as mega fight inches closer – reaction

Fury’s Victory in Thailand

Tyson Fury secured a dominant seventh-round technical knockout victory over Mariusz Wach in Thailand on Friday. The fight, which was not televised, served as a warm-up for Fury’s anticipated clash with Anthony Joshua. Fury controlled the action throughout the bout, with Wach retiring on his stool before the eighth round.

During the fight, Fury showcased his boxing ability, switching between orthodox and southpaw stances and demonstrating quick hand speed. He landed multiple jabs and power shots, with Wach appearing to tire as the rounds progressed. In the second round, Fury delivered three unanswered jabs, and by the fifth round, Wach had taken a barrage of uppercuts. After sustaining more heavy blows in the seventh round, Wach’s legs reportedly wobbled before he slumped onto his stool, leading to the fight’s conclusion.

Following his victory, Fury commented on his performance, stating he used a variety of techniques including jabs, southpaw and orthodox stances, and power shots. He also defended his decision to fight Wach, explaining that he sought to gain more rounds and become active again after having only one fight in two years. Fury highlighted the importance of the entire fight week experience, including the build-up, press conferences, and weigh-ins, in preparing him for future contests.

Tyson Fury moved a step closer to his much anticipated fight against Anthony Joshua with a seventh-round TKO win over Mariusz Wach
Image:Tyson Fury moved a step closer to his much anticipated fight against Anthony Joshua with a seventh-round TKO win over Mariusz Wach Credit: skysports.com

Anticipation for Joshua Fight

Fury’s win against Wach moves him closer to a potential blockbuster all-British meeting with Anthony Joshua. This highly anticipated bout is now contingent on Joshua defeating Kristian Prenga in Saudi Arabia on Saturday. Should Joshua emerge victorious, the fight with Fury could take place later this year, with Wembley Stadium in November being a potential venue.

Despite the prospect of a major fight, Fury expressed doubts about Joshua’s ability to overcome Prenga. He challenged Joshua’s courage, referencing an earlier encounter at Tottenham where, according to Fury, Joshua did not have the confidence to face him in the ring in front of 70,000 people. Fury stated he is “not convinced” that Joshua will ultimately step into the ring with him.

The potential locations for the Fury-Joshua fight have been a topic of discussion. While there was initial talk of the fight occurring in the US, it is now more likely to be held at Wembley Stadium. However, reports suggest it could be scheduled for 2am in November to attract a larger American viewership, a detail attributed to Saudi matchmaker Turki Alalshikh. Other locations such as Las Vegas, New York, Ireland, and Thailand have also been mentioned by Fury as possibilities.

Anthony Joshua
Anthony Joshua Credit: skysports.com

Post-Fight Reactions and Future Plans

After his win, Fury was seen celebrating with a dance and shadowboxing before offering a glove and a peck on the cheek to Wach. He also acknowledged Wach’s team. Frank Warren, a promoter who has previously guided Fury, congratulated him on his victory in Thailand.

When asked about attending Joshua’s fight in Jeddah, Fury declined, stating his intention to return home to his wife and children. He mentioned being away for 10 weeks in training camp and four months prior to that, indicating a desire for rest. Fury’s victory over Wach followed his points win against Arslanbek Makhmudov in April, marking his return to boxing after ending his fifth retirement.

Current odds place Tyson Fury as the favourite to win against Anthony Joshua, should their fight materialise. The odds for Fury are 8/13, a draw is 16/1, and Joshua is 7/5.

The fight between Edgar Berlanga and Steven Butler, and Richardson Hitchins versus Ricardo Salas, is scheduled to be broadcast live from New York on Sunday from 10pm.

Source: independent.co.uk

Adam Rutherford

Adam Rutherford

Senior Football Correspondent

Adam Rutherford is a Senior Football Correspondent at News-UK. He spent his early career filing match reports across the North West. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Manchester Metropolitan University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Manchester, he coaches a youth team and watches grassroots football. “Every transfer window hides a dozen real stories.”