James Toney backs Anthony Joshua over Tyson Fury in mega fight

James Toney has backed Anthony Joshua to defeat Tyson Fury in their expected all-British heavyweight fight later this year, saying Joshua’s athletic ability could decide the contest.

Toney, a former world champion at middleweight, super-middleweight and cruiserweight, believes Joshua has the physical qualities to overcome Fury despite both fighters being in the later stages of their careers. His assessment favours Joshua even though Fury is widely viewed by fans as the fighter with more left in him.

Fury, who is older and recently retired, has made a strong start to his two appearances this year. He has faced Arslanbek Makhmudov and Mariusz Wach and has rarely surrendered a round across those bouts, strengthening the argument that he remains effective despite his age and career history.

Joshua’s latest performance was less convincing before its finish. Returning last month against Kristian Prenga, he was knocked down twice in the opening round of what had been expected to be a straightforward fight. Joshua recovered and ended the bout with a second-round knockout.

That comeback has not changed Toney’s preference. He considers Joshua the more athletic of the two heavyweights and expects that advantage to carry him through the long-awaited meeting with Fury.

Madison Square Garden in New York is currently viewed as the most likely venue, while November has been discussed as the possible month. The fight is not yet formally confirmed, and Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn has warned that the event could be stopped if an announcement is made without his final approval.