Hearn Fires Back At White Over Fury-Joshua U.S. Push

Eddie Hearn has rejected Dana White's criticism over the Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua negotiations, insisting the heavyweight clash will stay in Britain despite lucrative offers to stage it in America.

White recently called the stalled talks "the weirdest thing ever" and suggested Hearn's team blocked progress on the bout. The UFC president reportedly pushed for the fight to move stateside with a bigger payday attached. Hearn told iFL TV that White tried to get promoter Sela to abandon the original contract and relocate the fight, but Joshua turned down the extra money. "Dana White thinks you can throw a little bit of money at someone and they'll dance to your tune," Hearn said, per MMA Fighting. "Well, guess what? Not on A.J.'s watch."

Why Joshua Rejected The U.S. Deal

Hearn said Joshua could have earned millions more by agreeing to fight Fury in America but refused to budge on the U.K. location. The promoter noted that keeping the fight in Britain actually costs him money as well, pushing back on accusations that financial motives drive his decisions. According to Hearn, Joshua's stance firmed up after seeing the response from British fans on social media. He said discussions with Netflix and Sela continue and an official announcement on a U.K. venue could come within a week.

Both Fury and Joshua won tune-up fights recently — Fury stopped Mariusz Wach while Joshua beat Kristian Prenga — to keep the matchup on schedule for late 2026. Ring Magazine previously confirmed the two British heavyweights had agreed to meet before the end of the year. Hearn mentioned Principality Stadium in Cardiff as his preference but acknowledged Wembley Stadium in London holds more global appeal. No date or venue has been confirmed.

Hearn said the fight could be the biggest sporting event in U.K. history if it stays on home soil. He credited Joshua for holding firm on the original contract terms despite pressure from multiple parties to accept the American offer. An announcement from adviser Turki Alalshikh is expected in the coming days.

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• MMA Fighting — Eddie Hearn fires back at Dana White over Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua debacle: A.J. ‘is not a sellout’