Los Angeles (June 27, 2018)- The WBA has ordered a purse bid between Anthony Joshua and Alexander Povetkin. Rather than relinquish his title and face Deontay Wilder Joshua will face the Russian fighter twice suspended for PED abuse.
Promoter Eddie Hearn stated that their is a deal on the table for an April 13th fight in the UK at Wembley Stadium however, Hearn didn’t specify what year the offer was intended.
An enraged Deontay Wilder responded on twitter to his UK counterparts with terse words for the British champion.
I knew I smelt pussy but damn @anthonyfjoshua I didn’t know the odor was that strong you coward ass bitch. Had the world waiting for 3 months playing games just for this moment. You’re not a true champion‼️ you’re just a weak minded coward that’s holding hard metal. #Facts
— Deontay Wilder (@BronzeBomber) June 26, 2018
Former champion Tyson Fury was quick to post a video of himself to Instagram proclaiming his apology on behalf of the UK for Anthony Joshua and willingness to “take 10 seconds, done.” to sign any agreement to fight.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BkiD7Iqje3-/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=kvp2bbhktjrg
The decision to face a safer opponent in Povetkin places the future of the heavyweight division on hold for what could be an entire year.