Hrgovic slams Joshua vs Fury world title bout

IBF heavyweight champion Filip Hrgovic has criticised the decision to put a world title on the line when Anthony Joshua faces Tyson Fury, calling it a bad call that is hurting boxing.

Hrgovic spoke on The Stomping Ground after reports that the WBA super title will be at stake when the pair meet at the Principality Stadium, Cardiff, on December 11.

“It is a f****ng decision. I do not know how they find a belt for that kind of fight,” Hrgovic said.

He questioned the recent form of both fighters.

“Who did they fight in their last fights? I mean, they are both big superstars, but how are they fighting for a title? Where did that come from?” he said.

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“These kinds of decisions are killing the sport. It is not good for the sport. Because of these funny decisions, people do not consider boxing a serious sport.”

The WBA has not confirmed the title status. Promoters Eddie Hearn and Frank Warren said the super title would be contested. A win would make either man a three-time world champion.

Both men were last in action in July. Fury stopped Mariusz Wach, while Joshua stopped Kristian Prenga. Critics argue that neither opponent was of high calibre. Their earlier wins over Arslanbek Makhmudov and Jake Paul were also considered uninspiring.

Murat Gassiev is expected to remain the WBA regular heavyweight champion, as that belt is not part of the fight.

Hrgovic won his title in August with a ninth-round stoppage of Moses Itauma. He is likely to face Frank Sanchez next as his mandatory challenger and will watch the Cardiff fight closely.

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