Anthony Joshua will no longer fight on Sky Sports after it was announced today that the 32-year-old had signed a deal with DAZN.
The streaming service made the announcement today describing it as a ‘ground-breaking deal’. Joshua’s first fight on DAZN will come against current three-belt heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk in their rematch on August 20. A win for ‘AJ’ in the Middle East would make it the perfect way for the partnership to begin.
Joshua’s professional debut against Emanuele Leo was shown live on Sky Sports and the Olympic Gold Medallist has enjoyed a rewarding relationship with the broadcasting giant. His greatest nights against Dillian Whyte, Wladimir Klitschko and the rematch against Andy Ruiz have all been successes for both parties.
Up until the last couple of weeks it had been expected that he would renew his deal with Sky, but DAZN have made a major move to secure his services.
“I am entering a new phase in my career with a new training environment, new coaches and now a new broadcaster.”
“Negotiations at this level take time so I am pleased to have it all wrapped up and now I can fully focus on giving the fans and DAZN what they want, knockouts in the glamour division.”
“I’ve been working with DAZN and following its progress for a long time. We have enjoyed a really successful partnership in the US for many years and I know the team and understand the passion and drive of the business.”
“DAZN’s vision and passion to innovate is what attracted me to the partnership. They are leading the digital landscape in sport and the future of sports broadcasting. I am really looking forward to a long and successful partnership.”
The deal isn’t just about broadcast rights, Joshua has deepened his partnership with DAZN by becoming a shareholder, special advisor, and brand ambassador for the business.