UPDATE: LIV Golf star Ian Poulter has made headlines after declaring he would not fight heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua for any amount of money. This bold statement comes on the heels of Joshua’s dramatic victory over YouTube sensation Jake Paul, who suffered a knockout in the sixth round of their bout in Miami on Friday night.
The boxing world is buzzing as Joshua, lauded for his impressive physique and skill, continues to solidify his status as one of the top heavyweights in history. Despite Paul’s significant financial backing, with estimates suggesting he earned around $90 million for the fight, Poulter remains adamant that stepping into the ring with Joshua is not an option for him.
When asked by BBC Sport how much he would require to face Joshua, Poulter simply stated, “I wouldn’t get in the ring with Anthony Joshua for any amount of money.” His response reflects a thoughtful consideration of personal safety and well-being, emphasizing that no financial incentive is worth risking one’s health.
While Poulter has a substantial net worth of approximately $60 million, he clearly prioritizes personal safety over the allure of wealth. The fight itself was viewed as a mismatch, with Joshua dominating from the start, and Poulter’s comments resonate with many who question the validity of celebrity boxing matches.
As the boxing landscape evolves, fans are eagerly speculating about a potential matchup between Joshua and fellow heavyweight Tyson Fury. Promoter Eddie Hearn hinted at a possible fight in February 2026, stating that talks are ongoing with Turki Al-Sheikh, the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority. Hearn noted, “It’s Turki Al-Sheikh’s responsibility to talk to Tyson Fury and try and make the deal.”
The excitement surrounding a Joshua-Fury clash has reached a fever pitch, with Hearn confirming they have accepted Al-Sheikh’s proposal but emphasizing that negotiations are still in progress. “I can’t tell you we’re fighting Tyson Fury. What I can tell you is Turki Al-Sheikh has told us, ‘I am going to make AJ vs Tyson Fury. This is your deal. Do you accept?’”
As fans await further updates, the question remains: will Poulter’s refusal to fight Joshua inspire others in the sports world to prioritize health over the potential for fame and fortune?
Stay tuned for more developments as this story unfolds, including future announcements regarding the highly anticipated Joshua vs. Fury fight.
