London, UK - Anthony Joshua has set his sights on a long-anticipated showdown with Tyson Fury in 2025, emphasizing that "time is of the essence" as he looks to seize every opportunity left in his career. Speaking recently in Lagos, Nigeria, the two-time heavyweight world champion made it clear that the clock is ticking, and he intends to maximize his efforts in the coming year.

"We'll see, let's get in the ring. Only God knows, but for me, we'll see in the future. Time is of the essence, time is limited, so I just want to put in more work in 2024," Joshua stated. "When I look back, I believe I could have done more, and I have another chance in 2025 to do more. I'm going to make sure that I take every opportunity that comes my way."

The prospect of a Fury-Joshua clash has long been one of the most tantalizing matchups in heavyweight boxing. For years, fans and pundits alike have been calling for the two British heavyweights to settle their rivalry in the ring. However, the fight has remained elusive, despite multiple attempts to make it a reality.

The first serious attempt came in 2018, shortly after Fury returned to the sport following his hiatus. Negotiations fell through despite early interest. A second effort was made during the pandemic lockdowns when Eddie Hearn, Joshua's promoter, scoured the globe for a venue. That attempt was scuppered by an arbitration ruling won by Deontay Wilder, forcing Fury into a third fight with the American. The third attempt followed Joshua's back-to-back defeats to Oleksandr Usyk when Fury publicly called him out. However, the timing was less than ideal, with Joshua recovering from crushing losses and seemingly lacking confidence.

While a clash between Fury and Joshua remains one of the most marketable matchups in boxing, some observers argue that the fight has lost some of its luster. Both men have experienced significant setbacks in recent years. Fury suffered two consecutive defeats to Usyk in 2024, while Joshua endured a devastating knockout loss to Daniel Dubois.

For Joshua, the Dubois loss was particularly damaging—not just physically but mentally. The defeat reignited questions about his resilience and whether he can rediscover the fire that made him a two-time world champion. Fury, on the other hand, faces his own psychological hurdles after back-to-back losses to Usyk. The once-indomitable self-belief that defined Fury's persona has been visibly shaken.

"Ups and downs—they happen to some people. My life is up and down, so I have to get used to the turbulent times and keep riding the wave. I can't stop now. I have to keep going until I reach my destination," Joshua said, acknowledging the emotional and professional rollercoaster he’s been on.

The big question remains: Is Tyson Fury motivated enough to face Anthony Joshua in 2025? Fury has previously expressed doubts about his passion for the sport, often hinting at retirement and showing disdain for the grueling training camps required for elite competition. His fluctuating weight between fights and inconsistent preparation have only fueled those concerns.

Fury's loss to Usyk stripped away his aura of invincibility and, for some, his claim as the greatest heavyweight of his generation. While Fury remains one of the most skilled boxers in the division, his willingness to return to the ring and face a challenge like Joshua remains uncertain.

Observers suggest that if Fury can secure a lucrative payday, it may be enough to lure him back into the spotlight. Saudi Arabia, with its enormous financial backing for marquee boxing events, remains the most likely stage for this blockbuster.

Despite being past their primes, Fury and Joshua remain two of the biggest names in boxing. A fight between them would still command massive global attention, likely breaking records for pay-per-view buys and gate revenue. But beyond financial incentives, both men have something to prove.

For Joshua, a victory over Fury would restore much of his lost credibility and remind the world why he was once considered the future of heavyweight boxing. For Fury, beating Joshua would provide an opportunity to re-establish himself as a dominant force in the division and silence those who doubt his motivation and ability to bounce back.

If the fight materializes in 2025, analysts believe Fury would enter as the pick to win. His size, reach, and ring IQ remain formidable tools, even as age begins to take its toll. Many predict that Fury would aim to frustrate Joshua with his jab, control the distance, and exploit openings with well-timed counters.

Joshua, on the other hand, would need to summon his early-career aggression and power. His best chance lies in closing the distance, targeting Fury’s body, and capitalizing on any defensive lapses.

While Fury vs. Joshua may no longer carry the weight it once did, it remains a fight that fans worldwide want to see. For all the setbacks, false starts, and disappointments, the prospect of these two British titans finally facing off in the ring is still a captivating storyline.

Joshua’s determination is clear: "I’m going to make sure I take every opportunity that comes my way. I have to keep going until I reach my destination."

Whether Fury shares that same resolve remains to be seen. If the stars align, 2025 could finally deliver the long-awaited clash between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury—a fight that, even in its diminished state, would still be one of the biggest events in boxing.