Exclusive: Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua Still Alive, says Key Sparring Partner Kevin Lerena

Tyson Fury may be focused on business in the ring, but talk of a long-awaited heavyweight showdown with Anthony Joshua continues to follow him everywhere he goes. 

According to WBC Bridgerweight Champion Kevin Lerena, that mega-fight is still very much alive.

Fury is currently deep in preparation for his next bout, and Lerena has once again been part of the champion’s inner circle, serving as a key sparring partner. The South African fighter has spent significant time in Fury’s camps over the past two years, including during preparations for the Oleksandr Usyk fights, forming a close working relationship with the former heavyweight champion.

“It’s always good training with him,” Lerena told SportsBoom.com. 

“We’ve spent two years together and we train a lot. He’s a good fighter and I’ve learned a lot from him, and I guess he learns a lot from me too.”

Lerena explained that their partnership grew naturally through repeated camps and shared preparation at the highest level.

“I was in his camp for the Usyk fights over the past two years. That’s how we became friends. I was his senior sparring partner and we’re very close.”

Will Fury vs Joshua Ever Happen?

In every generation of boxing, there are dream fights that captivate fans, and sometimes never materialise. Floyd Mayweather vs Manny Pacquiao famously took years to come together. In today’s era, the defining matchup remains Fury vs Joshua.

Both British heavyweights are former world champions, and despite setbacks, fan interest has never faded. Lerena believes patience will ultimately be rewarded.

“It might still happen, that’s all I’m going to say,” Lerena said carefully.

“I know what’s going to happen, but it’s not my place to announce anything. Yes, I do think it will happen eventually.”

Boxing, YouTubers and the Business of Fighting

The modern boxing landscape has also seen the rise of crossover bouts involving social media personalities and fighters from other disciplines. 

While opinions remain divided, Lerena takes a pragmatic view.

“At the end of the day, it’s about the money,” he said. 

“We’re in the entertainment business. This is how we earn a living. If those fights are generating revenue, why not?”

Lerena also hinted that he would be open to crossing into mixed martial arts if the right opportunity arose, believing his profile could draw major attention.

“I sell out arenas,” he said confidently. 

“Whether it’s boxing or MMA, people will want to see it. They’ll want to see if I can do it or not.”

Extreme Fighting Championship (EFC) president Cairo Howarth responded positively to the idea, praising Lerena’s marketability and athletic ability.

“We’d love to have him,” Howarth said. 

“He’s a great fighter, a great athlete, and he knows how to promote a fight.”

Waiting on Boxing’s Biggest Fight

For now, Fury and Joshua remain on separate paths, but voices from inside Fury’s camp suggest the door is far from closed. 

If Lerena’s belief proves correct, boxing fans may yet get the heavyweight clash that has defined an era, even if it takes a little longer than expected.