This archive report was first published on 14 May 2020.
Anthony Joshua's heavyweight title defence against Kubrat Pulev has been delayed until at least October due to the ongoing coronavirus crisis.
Originally scheduled for June 20 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the fight was also considered for July, but promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed that it will not take place until several months later.
Speaking to the Daily Mail on Thursday, Hearn stated, “With everything going on and the fact we have no idea yet about when we will be allowed crowds, and what size crowds, it won’t be the summer.”
He added, “I think it will be in the window between October and December. Sooner would be better than later because we don’t want it to be a year between fights.”
Joshua last fought in December, defeating Andy Ruiz Jr to win the WBA, IBF, and WBO belts in Saudi Arabia.
It is possible that the Pulev clash could be staged in the Gulf state as well.
Additionally, Hearn hinted at the possibility of Joshua facing British rival Tyson Fury in two mega-fights in 2021, with Fury reportedly keen on a step-aside deal with Deontay Wilder.
