Fury vs Usyk 2: What’s next for Tyson Fury, Oleksandr Usyk and the heavyweight division?

Promoter Frank Warren said Fury would need some time to consider his options, although neither the fighter nor his team had indicated that retirement was likely.

After several years of failed negotiations, now could be the perfect – and realistic – time for Fury to capitalize on an all-British fight with Joshua.

There are no obstacles. The lack of world titles is a blessing and we are not dependent on results going a certain way or mandatory challengers being eliminated.

Joshua was easily dismantled by Dubois in September and some boxing enthusiasts will tell you that the Fury-AJ ship has already sailed.

But the two-time world champion’s promoter Eddie Hearn describes it as the “biggest fight” in Britain.

It depends on how you define the largest value.

Fury vs AJ is no longer about the best fighting the best. But is it better late than never? It’s still a rivalry with its own history. So what do we have to lose?

Even the biggest skeptics will no doubt be surprised by the inevitable controversy Fury will spark at a press conference. Or when the normally respectable Joshua’s mask slips after he’s offended by Fury’s antics.

Her influence and fame extend beyond sports.

If 60 million people are willing to tune in to watch Mike Tyson fight Jake Paul, then even the best versions of Fury and Joshua – regardless of the losses on their records – are sure to draw viewers.

The loser – or perhaps even both men – can then sail happily into the sunset with one last payday.