Deontay Wilder believes Anthony Joshua does not “have the heart” to fight him, but says a bout between the former heavyweight world champions is closer than it ever has been.
The pair are on the same bill in Saudi Arabia on Saturday and could fight each other in 2024 if they both win.
Wilder is one of the greatest knockout punchers in heavyweight history and, while not convinced about Joshua’s intentions, remains hopeful of getting him in the ring.
On a stacked card in Saudi Arabia, Britain’s Joshua tops the bill against Sweden’s Wallin after Wilder takes on former champion Joseph Parker.
Both Joshua and Wilder are on the comeback trail after losing world titles in the past three years to Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury respectively.
Joshua, 34, is a two-time world champion – having unified the WBA, WBO and IBF divisions – with a record of 26 wins and three defeats.
Wilder, 38, held the WBC belt from 2015 to 2020 until he lost to Fury and 42 of his 43 victories have come by knockout.
Joshua is promoted by Matchroom Boxing and Eddie Hearn, while Wilder has spent most of his career with Premier Boxing Champions and adviser Al Haymon, as well as being managed by Shelly Finkel.
On why the pair have not yet met, Wilder said: “Money hasn’t been the issue. It comes with not having the heart, the will, the courage to step in the ring.
