British boxer Anthony Joshua was supposed to meet Russian boxer Murat Gassiev in their upcoming unification bout, but complications with the WBA heavyweight belt have cast a shadow over their plans.
In response to the news, Gassiev blasted the WBA for failing to recognise him as a full world champion following the loss of the title to Ukrainian fighter Oleksandr Usyk.
He (Gassiev) was basically demoted to the role of a secondary belt-holder, according to the 32-year-old, who found it “strange” that Joshua vs. Fury was sanctioned as a fight for the’super’ title.
Therefore, Gassiev thinks he should now be forced to fight the victor of Joshua vs. Fury.
This belt scenario is interesting and a little bit weird, Gassiev told Sky Sports.
I awoke like a tremendous champion the moment Usyk dropped his belt. Doze off; when you doze off, I will be your normal champion again. It’s alright. I won’t let out my frustrations show. It makes sense to me.
My gift to you. A single item. After the bout, he stated, “I need to fight with this guy for sure,” referring to Joshua or Fury.