Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder are in negotiations to fight separate opponents on the same card in Saudi Arabia. The heavyweight superstars were originally slated to face each other in a highly anticipated bout, but plans have changed.

Interim Fights

Due to unforeseen circumstances, Joshua and Wilder will both have interim fights before negotiations for their matchup can continue. Boxing promoters in Saudi Arabia had initially planned a major event on December 23 featuring Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk. However, Fury was dropped from the card, leaving room for Joshua and Wilder to potentially step in.

December 23 Show

Despite Fury's absence, the Saudis still want to put on a show on December 23. According to reports, Joshua is in talks with former sparring partner Otto Wallin, while Wilder is rumored to be negotiating with ex-WBO champion Joseph Parker, who recently won on Fury's undercard.

Potential Scenarios

If Joshua defeats Wallin, it could set up an IBF title fight against Filip Hrgovic, with the winner facing the Fury-Usyk winner or inheriting the vacated belt. On the other hand, a victory for Wilder over Parker could pave the way for a blockbuster matchup between Joshua and Wilder.

Tyson Fury needed 47 stitches after fighting Otto Wallin

Joseph Parker won on Fury's undercard in Saudi