Anthony Joshua Faces New Test as Fury Odds Shift-Hamed

Anthony Joshua faces a shifting landscape as former champion Prince Naseem Hamed says Tyson Fury’s odds have changed. Hamed, once convinced Fury could make Joshua look silly, now admits the Gypsy King may no longer dominate the British heavyweight scene, especially after recent performances. The veteran’s u‑turn comes ahead of Joshua’s July 25 showdown in Jeddah.

Prince Naseem Hamed told talkSPORT that years ago he saw Fury’s “awkward style” as a weapon that could make AJ look foolish. He added, “Things have changed now. Tyson’s seemed to drop back a little bit, but you never know with Tyson Fury.” The quote captures a dramatic shift in the former world champion’s assessment of the upcoming clash.

He also hinted that a Fury‑Joshua bout could end in a draw, a notion that would surprise many fans. Hamed’s comments reflect growing uncertainty about Fury’s ability to dominate a younger, still‑hungry Joshua, especially after both fighters have shown signs of vulnerability.

Joshua suffered a fifth‑round stoppage loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024, a defeat that raised questions about his durability. He rebounded with a sixth‑round finish over Jake Paul in 2025, proving he can still finish big‑name opponents.

His next test arrives on 25 July in Jeddah, where he will face Kristian Prenga, a little‑known heavyweight. Odds heavily favor Joshua, but the bout will be his first step back into the ring after a year‑long hiatus, making the outcome a key indicator of his current form.

If Fury’s perceived decline holds true, Joshua could view the November showdown as a clearer path to reclaiming world‑title glory. A competitive fight would boost his marketability and satisfy a British audience hungry for a home‑grown champion.

Fans have long debated whether Joshua can still dominate the division after his recent setbacks. Hamed’s revised outlook adds weight to the argument that the fight may be more evenly matched than it appeared five years ago.

Fury has announced a warm‑up bout in August but has not confirmed an opponent, date, or venue. The result will likely dictate the final scheduling of a Fury‑Joshua clash, potentially pushing the showdown into November.

Both fighters need to stay injury‑free and deliver convincing performances in their preparatory fights. A strong showing from Fury could restore confidence in his ability, while a dominant Joshua would reinforce his claim as the division’s top contender.

The timeline now hinges on two variables: Joshua’s performance against Prenga on 25 July and Fury’s August warm‑up outcome. If both men emerge unscathed, a November bout becomes increasingly plausible.

Until then, Hamed’s comments will fuel speculation across the boxing world, with pundits and fans alike watching closely to see whether the Gypsy King can still make Anthony Joshua look silly or if the tables have finally turned.