Things are getting progressively worse for heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua this year.
Offers continue to get turned down for a fight with him as Joshua looks to have his break out fight in the US on June 1st at Madison Square Garden.
The latest has come from Cuban heavyweight contender Luis Ortiz who’s management team have taken to social media to explain latest proceedings in negotiations for a fight.
Speaking on Instagram Ortiz’ management company released the following statement:
“It’s a no go for June 1. Sorry guys we were told to stay as quiet as possible and play possum until fight had been made because every-time someone called Luis out it would be a gimmick to promote them self but it still didn’t work. We just received news from promoter that it’s a no go and it was all a gimmick and (Eddie) Hearns low ball offers will not be accepted and no contract even ever got sent so sorry to all the loyal fans. Luis really wanted this title shot.”
This is really turning into a complete mess for AJ and his planned American debut at this point.
Training in Sheffield, UK at the moment all he can really do is hope his handlers find a replacement opponent for him soon following previous opponent Jarrell Miller failing a doping test last week.
The numbers do not look good at all with a little over one month to go and Joshua still looking for an opponent.
His two main rivals WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder and lineal champion Tyson Fury have at least both secured their next opponents over the coming months.
Professional boxing has to be the most unpredictable sport on Earth when it comes to these types of scrambles at times.
Ultimately, an announcement regarding Joshua’s next opponent will have to come this week at the latest in terms of securing someone credible who the public will be interested in watching.
Whoever takes the fight will want at least a full month’s training for it you’d have to think.
(Image source and credit: @kingkongboxing Instagram)
