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      Anthony Joshua gives cryptic update over future amid Tyson Fury fight talk in interview at Beterbiev vs Bivol 2

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      ANTHONY JOSHUA gave a cryptic response when answering a question about his boxing future.AJ was sitting ringside for The Last Crescendo in Saudi Arabia – where Dmitry Bivol is out for revenge against Artur Beterbiev in their lightweight rematch.Anthony Joshua gave a cryptic response when answering a question about his futureAJ was spotted chatting closely with unified heavyweight champ Oleksandr UsykCredit: GettyRiyadh’s bill has been dubbed as the greatest in boxing history, with Callum Smith handing Josh Buatsi the first pro LOSS of his career.Zhilei Zhang was then stopped by Agit Kabayel, Hamzah Sheeraz earned a controversial draw with Carlos Adames and Brit electrician Joshua Padley won over fans as he took Shakur Stevenson nine rounds in a brave defeat. All that came before Joseph Parker knocked out Martin Bakole within two rounds after he replaced Daniel Dubois at late notice following the Brit’s illness.Joshua joined a star-studded list of boxers watching among Saudi’s elite.READ MORE BOXINGBut the 35-year-old didn’t leave fans with much to go on when he was quizzed on his future.On what’s next, AJ said: “More fights, this is my life, this is what I do.”Right now I sit outside and I watch and then I’ll make my return one day.”Right right I sit back as a fan and watch the great people in the sport I love.”Most read in BoxingAJ’s ambiguous words were not the usual tough-talking messages the public typically hear from active boxers.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSInstead of calling opponents out and showing an urgency to return to the ring, AJ hinted that his next fight isn’t coming any time soon.The Watford boxer didn’t indicate a close return and made it sound like it could perhaps happen in the distance future.’Aura is crazy’ – Oleksandr Usyk asks where Anthony Joshua is seconds after arriving for stacked Beterbiev vs Bivol cardMany – including promoter Eddie Hearn – had hopes that Tyson Fury will overturn his retirement and fight AJ.Fans are convinced that Tyson, 36, will come out of retirement to fight again.A blockbuster all-British bout against AJ has been long in the making.Fury has announced his retirement five times in total, with his last hiatus from the ring in 2022.Meanwhile, AJ was spotted chatting closely with unified heavyweight champ Oleksandr Usyk ringside tonight.FOLLOW THE ACTION FROM RIYADH WITH OUR BOXING LIVE BLOG More

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      Zhilei Zhang brutally knocked out by Agit Kabayel as Chinese warrior, 41, stopped for first time in career

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      AGIT KABAYEL climbed off the deck to chop down 20-stone, 6ft6in Zhilei Zhang.The underdog gave away six inches in height and three stone in weight but beat the breath and enthusiasm out of the loveable veteran inside six fun rounds.Agit Kabayel beat Zhilei Zhang in a desert dust-up in RiyadhCredit: GettyThe German picked himself off the canvas to beat the giant Chinese veteranCredit: GettyZhang was unable to take anymore punishment in the sixth roundCredit: GettyBarring a fifth-round knockdown, Kabayel showed exactly how a good little’un beats a good big’un, flooding Zhang’s basement until the Great Wall fell.China’s 41-year-old southpaw started the bout like a man who knew time was not on his side.FOLLOW THE ACTION FROM RIYADH WITH OUR BOXING LIVE BLOGZhang chased the Kurdish German around the ring, slashing at his head from every angle.READ MORE ON BOXINGKabayel, 32, was clever and stayed out of range, he stabbed at Zhang’s body and threw the occasionally looped right hand.Twenty stone Zhang started to fatigue from as early as the second but every punch Kabayel connected with his shaven bowling-ball of a head bounced right off.The better shots from the 2017 Derek Chisora conqueror were the whipped hooks to Zhang’s never-ending torso.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMost read in BoxingMoments after Callum Smith and Josh Buatsi had put on a valiant show of light-heavyweight body punching, these two titans gave us an XXL version, in slower motion.Kabayel seemed confident that surviving the first half of the bout would allow him to pick off an exhausted veteran late on.Worrying new footage shows moment Deontay Wilder gets brutally KO’d by Zhilei Zhang while COMPLAINING to refereeKabayel poured on the pressure thick and fast in the fourth, like chilli sauce on kebabs, his self-confessed guiltiest pleasure.But Zhang was far more resilient than the sort of late-night pitta bread that melts limply in your hands at 3am.Kabayel was coasting the fifth after a minute of one-way action.But Zhang threw a three-punch combination that looked clumsy when the first two missed, but the final right hook shot landed flush and Kabayel was decked and had to crawl up after eight seconds.Kabayel rallied though and almost burst Zhang with a body assault as soon as the sixth started.It looked like Zhang was beaten and needed to take a knee but he battled on and kept taking blows.Eventually, Kabayel toppled the giant and Zhang folded into the canvas and could not rise in time to continue.Kabayel had hit the canvas during a dramatic fifth roundCredit: Getty More

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      Joseph Parker vs Martin Bakole LIVE RESULTS: Bakole DROPPED as huge heavyweight clash ends in brutal fashion – updates

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      JOSEPH PARKER has STOPPED Martin Bakole in two-round belter in Saudi Arabia!Parker was due to face Daniel Dubois for DDD’s IBF world title, but the British champion withdrew from the fight on Thursday due to illness.In stepped Bakole in his place, who flew in from Congo on just TWO days notice .And Bakole lasted just two rounds before a Parker right saw the late replacement pulled out by his corner.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Beterbiev vs Bivol – R3Beterbiev races out of the corner again to try and close the distance but Bivol counters with a two-piece to his stomach.Beterbiev is not deterred and comes in again, but Bivol again does some superb work on the back foot as he lands a clean counter.The champ is relentless in his pressure, so Bivol has to continue to make him pay.He does with a nice uppercut then a left, but Beterbiev lands a couple of nice shots himself.Bivol has some success but Beterbiev then fires in some very heavy shots at the end of the round.This is sensational quality, Bivol lands another nice combo as does the champ.A very narrow 2-1 to Bivol on my card.Copy linkCopiedBeterbiev vs Bivol – R2Beterbiev comes out positively from the corner, he perhaps agrees with me that he lost that first round.The Canadian is working behind the jab in this fight – again in stark contrast to the first meeting where he threw more than 1,000 total punches.His picking his shots much more this time round.Bivol is looking to match the work rate as he throws many more shots than he did at this stage first time out.Beterbiev keeps working the jab but Bivol then whips in a lovely right hand that lands cleanly.This is high quality stuff from these two. Beterbiev lands a lovely body shot then follows it with a quick one-two that nearly pins Bivol on the ropes.He escapes but Beterbiev stepped up the pace noticeably there – 1-1 for me.Copy linkCopiedBeterbiev vs Bivol – R1Stark difference in the opening round of the two fights so far.In the first meeting, Beterbiev was well on top and was able to pressure Bivol and get him moving backwards.Bivol is not conceding any ground here, as he stands his ground and fires a couple back at his rival.Bivol was cautious in that one but is firing away – he lands a nice left hook that catches a bit of Beterbiev’s glove on the way in.Much quicker pace about it in this round.Beterbiev lands a decent right late on, but I have that round for Bivol.Copy linkCopiedLet’s get ready to rumble!Michael Buffer says the famous words after we hear the Saudi anthem and get the introductions of both fighters.We’re only moments away now…Copy linkCopiedHere they comeDimitry Bivol gets a lukewarm response on his way to the ring while Artur Beterbiev gets a huge roar as his name is announced.It’s very clear which fighter the crowd are backing in this one.We cannot wait for this, these two are among the very best.Copy linkCopiedPromo We’ve got an elaborate promo running right now as we build-up to the mega rematch between two of the world’s very best fighters.Many people felt Dimitry Bivol was robbed in the first fight, when he finished the much stronger fighter.Will Bivol be able to gain his revenge tonight?Copy linkCopied’We want all the smoke’Eddie Hearn previewed the huge main event that is due to start any second.The Matchroom chief said: “For me [Bivol] won the first fight, it was very close.”This is about discipline and concentration.”Artur Beterbiev is a ticking time bomb, how long can you stop him from going boom.”I think Beterbiev will try and walk him down faster this time, so he has to be prepared.”Then asked about the return of 5vs5, Hearn responded: “Matchroom vs Queensbury, Matchroom vs Golden Boy – bring it on, we want all the smoke.”Copy linkCopied5vs5 returns?Boxing supremo Turki Alalshikh is being interviewed by DAZN and has dropped a few nuggets that will get boxing fans excited.He says “we have a lot of things coming this year”.That included teasing the return of 5vs5 in July, a massive fight between Ryan Garcia and Devin Haney, as well as fights in Africa and, of course, the confirmed Chris Eubank Jr vs Conor Benn fight at Tottenham.Copy linkCopiedParker speaksJoseph Parker spoke in the ring and pleaded his case for a world title next.He was meant to fight Daniel Dubois for the IBF title tonight and he is still the WBO mandatory challenger for Oleksandr Usyk.As one of the most in-form heavyweights in boxing, he thoroughly deserves a title shot next.Parker said: “Martin Bakole thanks for accepting the challenge and flying all the way here.”I listened, stayed calm, structured composed and got the victory.”I want to fight for the world title next.”We’ve got Frank [Warren] here… I want a world title next.”When I came back to the corner, Andy [Lee] gave me instructions to be patient, when he comes in throw the overhand right.”Asked if he would prefer to fight Usyk or Dubois, Parker said: “I will fight anyone and everyone.”Copy linkCopiedQuick night’s workWell that didn’t last long at all – 5mins and 17 seconds in total.Should various reports on the internet be believed then Bakole earned around $600,000 for his short trip to Saudi Arabia.He took a massive shot but it was a no-lose situation for the Congolese star.Nice work if you can get it.Copy linkCopiedBig shot rocks BakoleIt was a massive overhand right that sent Bakole tumbling.It landed on the top of his big thick head and while Bakole didn’t tumble straight to the floor, his legs went like jelly and he went stumbling backwards.Copy linkCopiedParker vs Bakole – R2 – Parker WINS!Bakole’s trainer Billy Nelson offers us another little nugget about Bakole’s camp – he hasn’t done any sparring in weeks.Parker throws some stiff jabs to start the fight and then closes the distance on the big man.That seems dangerous as Bakole gets on the inside and lands two absolutely massive body shots.Parker continues pushing forward though and then hits pay dirt – a massive right lands on Bakole’s head and sends him tumbling to the ground!There was a delayed reaction from Bakole as he went tumbling backwards.His legs were totally wobbly as he got back up and the ref quickly waves it off.A real shame that didn’t last longer!Copy linkCopiedParker vs Bakole – R1An almost comically static start from Bakole who isn’t on his toes and is just standing waiting for Parker to come forward.The Kiwi isn’t quite prepared to do that in this first round and is content to fire out a couple of jabs.Not much action or landing so far as the two massive fighters size each other up.Parker definitely looks better, though, as he fires off a decent one-two in the final minute of the round.Bakole finally makes his move inside the final 20 seconds and lands a massive shot to end the round!Well, that certainly will have woken Parker up!Copy linkCopiedHere they comeMartin Bakole is first to the ring as he arrives draped in the Congolese flag and a plain black t-shirt.Then comes Joseph Parker – at the heaviest weight of his career – in a red gown with a glittery hoodie.This is an absolutely top quality heavyweight fight and, remember, an eliminator for the WBO title, currently held by Oleksandr Usyk.Copy linkCopiedBuffer in the buildingYou know it’s a big fight night when Michael Buffer is in the building!We’re just moments away now, ring walks are expected very shortly…Copy linkCopied’Everything should favour Joe’Promoter Frank Warren has just had another quick word with TNT Sports and said: “Joseph Parker has come in heavy, which is better.”Joe has to create the pace and keep moving.”Everything should favour Joe with a last-minute opponent.”But there’s so many times we’ve seen big upsets.”Copy linkCopiedAnother late callLike Josh Padley, Martin Bakole was another late call-up to this fight.The heavyweight only landed in Saudi Arabia at 2am yesterday local time – 23hrs later he’s about to step into a massive title eliminator against Joseph Parker.It’s unclear how much training Bakole has had in recent weeks, with reports stating that he’s going to be entering the ring at a massive 310lbs.At his last fight he weighed in at 285lbs.The fight is also interesting because of Parker’s mindset – he was expecting to fight Daniel Dubois for the heavyweight title tonight.Copy linkCopiedWhat a performance by both!Shakur Stevenson ended that fight with clinical excellence and will get plaudits for stepping on the pace when the fight was on the line.Josh Padley has earned himself a lot of new supporters again, that was a bold and gutsy performance in incredible circumstances.Taking a fight with a pound-for-pound star and three-weight world champion on THREE DAYS notice.Sensational.Copy linkCopiedStevenson vs Padley – R9 – STEVENSON WINS!Stevenson starts the round with slightly more pace and starts to let his hands go a little bit more. A MASSIVE body shot rains into Padley and sends him down on one knee!Stevenson smells blood and then fires in more massive shots – another BIG body shot sends him down again!Padley continues to fight on but yet another body shot sends him down for a THIRD TIME!He beats the count once again and the bell rings.But as it does the towel comes in and it’s all over!Copy linkCopiedStevenson vs Padley – R8Padley is not giving up in this fight, this is really tremendous courage from him.Stevenson continues to push out that jab with great success.Padley goes in with a three-punch combo that looks like good work but they were blocked and deflected.Three straight shots then land plum on Padley’s nose as his head rocks back. Another round for Stevenson.Copy linkCopiedParker vs Bakole – NEXTJust a reminder this is the final fight before we the massive heavyweight clash between Joseph Parker and Martin Bakole.Copy linkCopiedStevenson vs Padley – R7I don’t think many people would have thought Josh Padley would be seeing round seven against Shakur Stevenson.He continues to fire his shots and put pressure on Stevenson, who will knows he is in a fight.The American continues to do the better work though, with that jab pretty much unstoppable from the Yorkeshireman.A mega body shot with the left then has Padley grimacing but he continues to fire his own shots.The pair then share a little look at the end of the round.That didn’t look too friendly but this is a really gutsy performance.Copy linkCopiedStevenson vs Padley – R6Excellent start from Padley as he starts the round on top and puts on a couple of combos to put some pressure onto Stevenson.The champ then responds with two absolutely quality shots that just seem to monetarily hurt Padley.Stevenson has really upped the pace and unleashes a lovely combo that has Padley really hurt!Incredible stuff as Padley again bares down and fires back, incredible bravery here.Stevenson hears the roars of the crowd and smiles mid-clinch.Brave stuff from Padley but the quality work is coming from Stevenson, although he continues to fire and put in work.Copy linkCopiedStevenson vs Padley – R5Stevenson continues to work behind that job but Padley manages to come forward and land a nice little one-two.Stevenson’s jab is so good, though, and he is getting it to land as often as he likes. The champ is a man of few weaknesses and every time Padley looks to have let off a good shot or got into range, Stevenson uses his range to win the exchanges.Padley does then land a nice right but Stevenson still manages to fire something back to him.HUGE body shot goes in from Stevenson really hurts Padley!He felt that but then shows some guts to continue firing back.Stevenson ends the round with another one-two and an uppercut, as Padley grits his teeth and tries to throw back.Another round in the bank for the champ.Copy linkCopiedStevenson vs Padley – R4Padley trying to get in closer in round four and lay his gloves on Stevenson.He pushes him into the corner and gets a couple of shots to land but it’s good defence to stop those doing any damage.Stevenson continues to throw out his jab and a couple land, although they aren’t massive in any way.Stevenson then smashes Padley with a short right that draws another gasp.Padley is doing himself really proud in there – not just surviving but also showing some guts to try and win this fight.Another round to Stevneson, though.Copy linkCopied More

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      Callum Smith rushed to hospital after handing Josh Buatsi first defeat of career in fight of the year contender

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      CALLUM SMITH was rushed to hospital after handing Josh Buatsi the first defeat of his career with an age-defying performance of brilliant brutality and courage.The Liverpool light-heavyweight hero looked close to retirement after punishing losses to Canelo Alvarez and Artur Beterbiev left him beaten and adrift.Callum Smith slugged his way to a stunning win over Joshua BuatsiCredit: GettyThe unbeaten Buatsi had been favourite heading into fight nightCredit: ReutersBut Smith put on a show to seal the WBO interim light-heavyweight titleCredit: ReutersBut he stood up to the tough Ghana-born favourite, sucked up all of his best shots and won a unanimous decision.The three ringside judges had the horrible job of splitting the two marvellous men – with Steve Gray going far too wide –  and decided: 119-110, 115-113 and 116-112. FOLLOW THE ACTION FROM RIYADH WITH OUR BOXING LIVE BLOG Smith was then rushed to hospital for an injury to his eye, while Buatsi was assessed by medics at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh.READ MORE ON BOXINGDespite both light-heavy beanpoles being tall and technical range-fighters, the best action of the opener was up close and personal.The pair clinched and swapped hooks like little Mexicans.Buatsi, 31, scored with a hook double to head and body but then Mundo landed a left hook to the ribs that echoed around the Riyadh arena.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMost read in BoxingSmith was bundled down once but it was rightly called a split that didn’t need a count.Smith, 34, made a bright start to the second and made his ringside family roar with clever uppercuts.But a Buatis left hook clipped his cheekbone and silenced the travelling Scousers and another even round followed.By the third round, former super-middle world champ Smith was using his superior experience and reach to score from a safe distance.But then Buatsi peppered him with body blows toward the end of the session and for a second it seemed like Smith was folding to the canvas.Frank Warren’s Commonwealth Gold medalist Lewis Williams builds to second pro fight | Contender Watch the full episode of Contender on Sun Sport’s YouTube channel NOW as we exclusively go behind the scenes with Lewis WilliamsTypically he dug deep and held on, even landing a long right hand before the bell.In the fourth round, the two brilliant Englishmen glued their foreheads together and went to war.Hooks slashed in from both sides as their torsos took a leather but it was Smith who walked back to his corner with a cut and welt around his right eye.Smith enjoyed his best round in the fifth after Buatsi made a horrible start. The Croydon ace spent the first two minutes tucked up in his shell, absorbing blows on his tight guard.Smith battled on despite a bad cut above his right eyeCredit: GettyHis combination work earned Mundo a unanimous decision winCredit: GettyHis only respite came when a blow blew the mouthguard out of his mouth.Smith totally dominated the session and Buatsi needed a drastic change of pace.But it was Smith who raced up the gears, battering Buatsi throughout the sixth, with referee Howard Foster looking on the cusp of a stoppage.Suddenly, with ten seconds left of the one-sided beating, Buatsi landed a huge left hook and it was Smith who was buzzed and struggling and glad to hear the bell.Both warriors needed a breather in the seventh and took a break from the brutal hooks and right hands they had swapped.They exchanged long and safe jabs and recuperated, it was a well-earned rest in a superb fight that was almost impossible to split.Buatsi ate three scything right hands in the eighth that forced him backwards but, just before the bell, it was Smith who had to stagger backwards, onto the ropes, when he was tagged back with a reverse one-two.In round nine, Buatsi completely gave up defending against Smith’s right hand and was peppered with the same predictable blow to make it a clear round for the 30-2 veteran.The win extends Smith’s pro record to 31–2Credit: ReutersIn serious danger of drowning in the desert, Buatsi turned the tide in the tenth and ran away with the round with clinical combinations, thrown from angles.But when he got greedy Smith shot back with that right and bought himself another round.Smith’s daddy-long legs started to betray him in the eleventh, when Buatsi’s fresher engine started to make him look the most likely winner. But both heroes kept punching and ducking and digging deeper and deeper.They hugged before the start of the 12th, it was boxing perfection, the best of Britain.Smith was forced into the backfoot but it was from there that he landed a right hand and left hook that wobbled Buatsi.It was Smith’s turn to lose his gum shield with 50 seconds to go but there was enough time for both magnificent men to finish with a gunfight.READ MORE SUN STORIESSmith’s team, led by brother Paul, raced into the ring to celebrate and Callum climbed the corner turnbuckles to wave victoriously to the crowd.The pair embraced and waited for the judges to decide that Smith was back among the light-heavyweight world title race. More

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      ‘Aura is crazy’ – Oleksandr Usyk asks where Anthony Joshua is seconds after arriving for stacked Beterbiev vs Bivol card

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      OLEKSANDR Usyk was spotted asking for Anthony Joshua just seconds after arriving for Beterbiev vs Bivol 2.Fans claimed that the heavyweight champion’s “aura is crazy” after watching his slick building entrance in Saudi Arabia.Oleksandr Usyk was spotted asking for Anthony Joshua just seconds after arriving for Beterbiev vs Bivol 2Credit: DAZNFans claimed that the heavyweight champion’s ‘aura is crazy’Credit: DAZNThe unified world champ was heard asking Eddie Hearn a questionUsyk donned flash sunglasses and a Ukrainian inspired outfit as he arrived for the blockbuster ‘Fight Card of the Century’.The 38-year-old could be seen walking in with his entourage, with many of his pals matching his yellow and blue Stone Island attire.Usyk was videoed immediately shaking hands with Liam Smith, whose brother Callum handed Joshua Buatsi the first defeat of his career in the first fight of the night.But it was Usyk’s interaction with AJ’s promoter Eddie Hearn that had everybody talking early on.READ MORE BOXINGThe unified WBC, WBA, and WBO heavyweight champ could be hearded quietly chanting: “Eddie, Eddie, Eddie” before he shook hands with Hearn.Usyk then quizzed the Matchroom owner: “Is Anthony Joshua here?”To which Hearn simply responded: “Yes”.And fans believe it could be a sign of things to come later as there’s been talks of a possible third fight between AJ and Usyk.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSOne wrote: “Usyk is the man. What a gangster!”Another wrote: “Bros aura is crazy 🤣.”A third said: “AJ will probably try to call him out later. But there’s no point.”Frank Warren’s Commonwealth Gold medalist Lewis Williams builds to second pro fight | Contender Watch the full episode of Contender on Sun Sport’s YouTube channel NOW as we exclusively go behind the scenes with Lewis WilliamsAnthony Joshua is also in attendance for Beterbiev vs Bivol 2Credit: GettyThe Watford boxer was easily beaten in their first two bouts – before Usyk then did the double over Tyson Fury, who retired last month.Hearn also stated that his fighter would like “another crack at Daniel Dubois” – who holds the IBF belt.Dubois was looking to defend his IBF title on Saturday after coming off a brutal knockout win over Joshua in September.Dubois pulled out of Saturday’s co-feature heavyweight title match against Joseph Parker with illness.With Usyk and AJ both in the building, they’ll watch Congolese boxer Martin Bakole step in to fight Parker on two days notice.But everybody has truly travelled to Riyadh to watch two of the very best fighters in the world rematch as the headliner.READ MORE SUN STORIESArtur Beterbiev will rematch Dmitry Bivol for the undisputed light-heavyweight world championship on Saturday. More

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      Tyson Fury ‘ages 30 years’ in bizarre Instagram post as Gypsy King declares ‘father time now’

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      TYSON FURY has given fans a bizarre glimpse into his future – after calling time on his glittering career. The Gypsy King decided to hang up his gloves last month following 16 years in the ring. Tyson Fury hung up his gloves after his loss to Oleksandr UsykCredit: GettyThe 36-year-old has called time on his career on a number of occasionsCredit: PATyson has hinted this time he may retired for good with his latest Instagram updateCredit: InstagramFury, the unified heavyweight world champion from 2015 to 2016, lost just two of his 37 pro fights.Fans are convinced that Tyson, 36, will come out of retirement to fight again.He has announced his retirement five times in total, with his last hiatus from the ring in 2022.But despite rumours he will fight again, Tyson appears to be preparing for life after boxing. READ MORE ON BOXINGTaking to Instagram on Saturday, the 36-year-old heavyweight uploaded an apparently doctored snap of him sporting a full white beard. Fury captioned the pic: “Father time now.” One fan responded: “See you in two weeks when you get bored.”Another laughed: “You aged yourself 30 years with your own hype.”Most read in SportBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhile a third joked, referencing Tyson’s dad: “Big Johns had a glow up.”And a fourth predicted: “Until you announce AJ [Antony Joshua] in summer…”‘Greedy Belly has been my best opponent’ – Oleksandr Usyk reveals how he really feels about Tyson Fury Fury left boxing behind again following his second defeat to Oleksandr Usyk.A blockbuster all-British bout against Anthony Joshua has been long in the making. Despite Fury’s retirement announcement, AJ’s promoter Eddie Hearn is pushing to get the fight on. Hearn told IFL TV about an ultimatum he has given Fury, saying: “Maybe there is a conversation in a week or two weeks or three weeks time.View of The Sun’s boxing expert: ‘I think it’s a ploy’By Wally Downes JrCALL ME a miserable fat little boxing cynic, but Tyson Fury’s latest retirement just doesn’t wash with me.It wasn’t too long ago we were hearing he had a ten-fight deal with Saudi Arabia, that he was gonna fight Anthony Joshua twice, then he was going to face Joseph Parker twice.He was planning on doing every fight in the world – there was even talk he’d rematch Francis Ngannou and do a better job.IF he has retired, then he goes out with an incredible career having made over £300million in boxing events alone, let alone all the extra stuff.He does so having sacrificed bundles of his own life for such success.We know his wife Paris suffered a miscarriage going into the first Olesandr Usyk fight.We know for Deontay Wilder III, his little girl was put in intensive care, he barely even trained for that fight, he was sleeping on the hospital floor.IF he has retired, IF it is genuine, then it’s been an incredible career.And for the big showman, it’s probably a nice little short sharp way to go out by just posting a video while sat inside his car.But I can’t help but think that it’s a bit of a ploy to drive AJ a little bit crazy.AJ was at the Ring Awards the other day and put out a social media post saying “Fury, where are you? I’m looking for you.”It’s the only fight that AJ wants, and Fury being wise and looking at the Floyd Mayweather playbook, knows that once you retire, you have to be coaxed out of retirement.And how do you coax someone out of retirement? Loads more readies.The fact of the matter is, Fury has always told us: I’m a prize fighter, I do it for money, I’m gonna do it for as long as I can and make as much money as I can.So the idea that he suddenly ducks out now doesn’t seem to ring quite true.As Fury made the announcement, I was with Frank Warren and he said hadn’t spoken to Tyson about it today, but that he hopes that it’s true, that Fury’s done enough and made enough money.IF it’s true, then what an incredible career.Fury and AJ have put British boxing on the map where it’s not been for decades, not since Lennox Lewis 25 years ago.So thank you, but rather than being at his leaving party, which I’m sure The Sun would be invited to, I suspect we’ll see him boxing AJ in Riyadh in a few months. “We say to Fury, ‘Just to let you know, you don’t wanna fight AJ, in the summer, August, September, because if you want to come out of retirement, now is the time to do it’.”The only things I know are AJ wants to fight Fury and he wants to fight for the world heavyweight title, that’s it.”Hearn additionally told Sky Sports: “We will ask the question.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Frank Warren was saying, ‘Well, he’s retired’.”I know but it’s still my job to say we are going to make our decision, just double-checking there’s no chance he’s going to fight.” More

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      Who is Josh Padley? Meet the former electrician fighting for world title against Shakur Stevenson

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      JOSH PADLEY will be fighting for a world title on just FOUR DAYS notice when he takes on one of the best boxers in the world.Shakur Stevenson was originally scheduled to fight Floyd Schofield but after being allegedly ‘poisoned’ just six days before the bout, Padley now steps in to what is the biggest fight of his life.Josh Padley has the fight of his lifePadley vs Stevenson will be one of SIX title fights in what fans are calling one of the greatest boxing events of all time.This isn’t the only short notice fight change this weekend with the event originally having seven title fights – however, Daniel Dubois has had to pull out of his fight vs Joseph Parker due to illness.This is set to be Padley’s first fight in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia but his second Riyadh season event – last time out he beat Mark Chamberlain at Wembley Stadium.BETERBIEV VS BIVOL 2 LIVE – LATEST UPDATESSimilar to Padley, this will be Stevenson’s first time fighting in Saudi Arabia but also his first time fighting outside of America and will be hoping to make a great impression with many fans watching the 27-year-old for the first time.Stevenson is going into this as the heavy favourite, holding a perfect record of 22 wins and zero losses.This fight marks as his second defence of the WBC World Lightweight title and has previously held the WBC and WBO World Super-Featherweight belts.Who is Josh Padley and what is his boxing record?Josh Padley is a British Lightweight boxer who has recently rose to fame after fans have found out that he is a part-time electrician. Most read in BoxingBefore his most recent fight, Padley was seen fighting on small fight events against much lesser known boxers, forcing the electrician to keep his part-time job for the much needed income.His last fight held at Wembley Stadium truly put him on the map with a huge upset after beating Turki Alalshikh’s favourite fighter, Mark Chamberlain.Padley has been a professional boxer for just six years now and with a record of 15 wins and zero losses he now takes a huge step in his career as he takes on Shakur Stevenson for the WBC World Lightweight title.With a win on Saturday night, it would be one of the biggest upsets in boxing history and one of the greatest underdog stories we have seen in recent British boxing.Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol 2 Full cardArtur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol – for the IBF, IBO, WBC and WBO light-heavyweight titlesJoseph Parker vs Martin Bakole Shakur Stevenson vs Josh Padley – for the WBC lightweight titleCarlos Adames vs Hamzah Sheeraz – for the WBC middleweight titkeVergil Ortiz Jr vs Israil Madrimov – for the interim WBC heavyweight titleZhilei Zhang vs Agit Kabayel – for the interim WBC heavyweight titleJoshua Buatsi vs Callum Smith – for the interim WBO light-heavyweight titleBradley Rea vs Constantino Nanga More

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      Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol 2 LIVE RESULTS: Main event on NOW after epic undercard saw shock wins and controversy

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      ARTUR BETERBIEV is facing Dmitry Bivol in a huge rematch RIGHT NOW after an epic undercard reached a stunning conclusion!Bivol will be out for revenge after the narrow loss in their first fight in his hopes of setting up a stunning trilogy fight at some point in the future.On the incredible undercard, Callum Smith handed Josh Buatsi his first LOSS, Zhilei Zhang was STOPPED by Agit Kabayel and Hamzah Sheeraz failed to win the middleweight world title.While Josh Padley SHOCKED the world by going nine rounds with Shakur Stevenson on just FOUR days notice.As chief support, Joseph Parker STOPPED Martin Bakole in brutal fashion after Daniel Dubois withdrew due to illness.Main event ring walks: 10.51pm GMTTV/Stream: DAZN PPV / Sky Sports Box Office / TNT Sports Box OfficeCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol (Round 2)Both fighters are looking to make this mark in the fight early on.Beterbiev is still trying to be the more offensive but as he comes forward, Bivol catchs him flush in the jaw with a punch.Bivol seems happy to let his opponent to come onto him and pick him off with punches when he is open in these situations.Copy linkCopiedArtur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol (Round 1)These two fighters know plenty about each other’s style.Beterbiev is the fighter who looks to dictate the pace early on, throwing all the punches.Towards the end of the round, Bivol starts to open up more.He seems to have learnnt from the cagey start he made in their previous fight.Tough to call this round, very even.Copy linkCopiedArtur Beterbiev vs Dmitry BivolNow we are onto the main event of the evening.This is the one everyone has been waiting for.A rematch which, if it lives up to the first fight, should be an absolute classic.Copy linkCopiedMain event could go either wayThis fight has two boxers who are more than capable of winning this bout and that is reflected in the bookies thoughts:Dmitry Bivol – 11/10Draw – 14/1Artur Beterbiev – 4/5]All fight odds brought to you by Betway.Copy linkCopiedJoseph Parker vs Martin Bakole That was a strange end to the fight to send Bakole down.Parker threw a punch over the top which only seemed to clip the top of the head of his opponent.However, in a delayed reaction, a few seconds after the punch landing his legs buckle and he collapses to the canvas.Job done for the Kiwi who makes it six wins on the bounce since his last defeat.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedJoseph Parker wins by stoppageCopy linkCopiedJoseph Parker vs Martin Bakole (Round 2)This is really a slugfest between the pair.Bakole is not interested in a gaurd or defence at all.The Congolese fighter is throwing big haymakers looking to cause an upset.Parker waits for his moment then lands a big punch over the top that catch him flush in the face.As the Kiwi lands another, Bakole’s legs buckle and he ends up on the canvas.He gets back to his feet but the referee decides his fight is done and stops it.Copy linkCopiedJoseph Parker vs Martin Bakole (Round 1)You have to wonder what sort of fighting form Bakole is in, he certainly will not be going 12 rounds in this one.Parker starts the more positive but is giving a lot of respect to his opponent.Bakole shows that is a wise move as he catches the former world champion with a couple of wild hits that Parker definitely felt.Copy linkCopiedJoseph Parker vs Martin BakoleWe are almost at the main event this evening.Sadly, since Dubois dropped out, this fight is no longer for a title.Bakole stepped in at very short notice and certainly has a dangerous punch whiich Parker needs to be very wary of.He is a slugger, who will give it his all early on, as the fight goes on he tends to tire easily.Copy linkCopiedKiwi expected to show his qualityHaving taken the fight at short notice following the withdrawal of Dubois, the bookies cannot see past a Parker win in this one.Joseph Parker – 8/15Draw – 16/1Martin Bakole – 13/8All fight odds brought to you by Betway.Copy linkCopiedShakur Stevenson vs Josh Padley It is rare in a boxing match that there is more than one winner.Stevenson got the expected win and probably took every round on the card.However, Josh Padley, take a bow.To step in at the last minute to take the fight having had no training camp and going nine rounds with a champion is phenomenal.Padley took so many hits but his powers of recovery were nothing short of superhuman.The boxer from Yorkshire should be proud of this performance he walks out of this ring having impressed the boxing world.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedShakur Stevenson wins by stoppageCopy linkCopiedShakur Stevenson vs Josh Padley (Round 9)Padley is sent to the canvas for the first time in this fight.He seems annoyed with himself as the body shot sends him down.Padley gets straight back up but has to take the standing count.Stevenson continues to work him with the big body shots and and sends him to the canvas once again.Despite all he is taking the Yorkshireman continues to go on the attack and look to land shots himself.Towards the end of the round, the champ puts him down once again but Padley wants to continue.Sadly for him, the towel comes in from his corner, they have decided he has had enough.Copy linkCopiedShakur Stevenson vs Josh Padley (Round 8)This experience should do the world of good for Padley’s pro career.It would take him some time to work his way to a title shot but from this moment, he will face much lesser boxers knowing that he was able to mix it up with a champion.Stevenson keeps landing big hits but Padley’s powers of recovery are something you rarely see in this sport.It is almost like a computer game where the power gauge replenishes immediately if you hit the right buttons.There is no doubt which way a judges’ scorecard would go but what a statement it would be by the Brit to take this all the way.Copy linkCopiedShakur Stevenson vs Josh Padley (Round 7)Stevenson has certainly had a wake up call in this fight.He was disrespectful to the Brit in the weigh-in and was certainly not expecting a fight like this.The quality of the champ is getting him to moments where it seems he has Padley on the verge of a knock down put he just cannot put him away.What is even more impressive is how quickly the man from Yorkshire recovers from these punches to come forward and land hard hits himself.Stevenson has not looked in any trouble in the fight but he is certainly not having everything his own way as he was expecting.This is not the exhibition he was expecting to put on.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedShakur Stevenson vs Josh Padley (Round 6)The fact he has taken this fight this far is a credit to Padley.Stevenson lands a series of punches that really seem to have the Brit on the ropes but he replies some big shots of his own.Padley has seemed on the verge of a knockout on two or three occasiions but he has comeback with punches that the champion definitely felt.Copy linkCopiedShakur Stevenson vs Josh Padley (Round 5)Stevenson has such quck hands, that must be the hardest thing for Padley to deal with.Just as it seems the American is going to get a single shot off, within a matter of seconds he has hit you with three or four.Weirdly, the champ seems to have done away with trying to fight from behind his jab, he was getting some joy from those.As the jabs landed on the face of Padley, he seemed stunned, which was when you would expect Stevenson to follow up with combos to put him on the canvas.Stevenson lands a punch that hurts Padley but the electrician replies with a left followed by right that catch the American and surprise him.Copy linkCopiedShakur Stevenson vs Josh Padley (Round 4) You cannot see Padley holding onto his undefeated pro record by the end of this fight.He needs to use this fight for what it is, a chance to see how far off the levels he is from fighting at the top in this division.Stevenson isn’t taking him lightly, he can see Padley has that tenacity to land something dangerous and get lucky.While the champ needs a convincing win, he needs to do it the right way with some technical boxing.Copy linkCopiedShakur Stevenson vs Josh Padley (Round 3)The biggest compliment you can make so far in this one is that Padley has not looked out of his depth.When you come in at late notice, the biggest worry is to look a complete mismatch.Padley lands some good punches but Stevenson reacts with a combination of quick punches that send the Brit to the ropes.All the pressure is on the champ here, he has had a couple of rounds to look at his opponent but he really needs to be taking it up a gear now and showing his killer instinct.The American seems to be getting most joy with his strong jabs, they are catching Padley square in the face and really rocking him.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedShakur Stevenson vs Josh Padley (Round 2)While Padley was never part of the plan for this fight originally, he is undefeated in his pro career to this point.However, he has never faced an opponent of this calibre.Stevenson starts the fight in a patient fashio but lands three punches in very quick succession.While the power was lacking behind them, how quickly he got them off to land will have surprised Padley somewhat.Copy linkCopiedShakur Steenvson vs Josh Padley (Round 1)It is almost a strange situation when a boxer steps in at short notice to fill a fight.Especially facing a defending champion, you would think there would be no pressure and they can just give it their all to upset the odds.All too often though we see a cagey performance where they are more focussed on taking the fight as far as possible to give a good account of themselves and earn their purse.Padley seems to be in the camp of taking his unexpected moment in the limelight, he puts everything into some haymaker punches but cannot land a good connection.The champion seems a bit taken aback by the audacity of someone thinking they can do that to him.Almost as if he is going off script and was just supposed to be here to make up the numbers.Copy linkCopiedShakur Stevenson vs Josh PadleyWhat a moment this is for British boxer Padley.He stepped in at short notice for this one, the electrician downed tools and headed for Riyadh as soon as the opportunity presented itself.That fact alone puts some real pressure on the champion, if does not go straight through Padley with ease, it will raise some serious questions of Stevenson’s credentials.Copy linkCopiedCarlos Adames vs Hamzah SheerazWell that was a surprise to many.The first judge gave the fight to Sheeraz by a slender amount.Following that, the next one had a resounding win for Adames.Then, to the surprise of Adames, the final judge has the fight as a draw between the pair.Not many would have predicted that one, it may setup a future rematch between the pair.Copy linkCopiedCarlos Adames has split draw with Hamzah SheerazCopy linkCopiedCarlos Adames vs Hamzah Sheeraz (Round 12)Most of the pundits have Adames at least three rounds up.That means only one thing for Sheeraz, knockout or bust.He has let his hands go a little more in the last two rounds but he seems to go back in his shell when he finally lands good hits.There doesn’t seem to be that animalistic hunger when they land to come inside and go for the kill.Sheeraz has probably won the last two rounds but it all seems too little too late.He is going to pay the price for allowing Adames just pick up rounds with scoring shots that were causing him no trouble.Copy linkCopied More