Anthony Joshua resumes training with Usyk ahead of potential Tyson Fury showdown

Former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has resumed training with former rival Oleksandr Usyk as he prepares for a return to the ring that could lead to a blockbuster “Battle of Britain” clash against Tyson Fury later this year.

Joshua and Usyk have reportedly been working together in a training camp in Valencia for several weeks. Joshua returned to Spain after attending Fury’s unanimous points victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday.

The Olympic gold medallist is being lined up to face Fury in November, with Wembley Stadium among the possible venues. However, he may first need to take part in a warm-up bout.

Joshua’s next fight would be his first since a car crash in Nigeria in November that reportedly claimed the lives of two close friends. He is said to be awaiting medical clearance in the coming weeks after suffering injuries in the accident.

Usyk, who defeated Joshua in 2021 and 2022, explained their renewed partnership by saying athletes must support one another.

Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, said the training camp has had a positive impact on the former champion.

According to Hearn, Joshua is highly motivated and benefiting from the intense sessions with Usyk, describing the atmosphere in camp as remarkable.

He also revealed that Joshua closely studied Fury’s recent performance, filming the bout and reviewing footage as preparations continue for a possible mega-fight.

If finalised, a Joshua-Fury showdown would rank among the biggest boxing events in recent British sporting history.