Now That Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, and Deontay Wilder Have Slipped From Their Thrones, Who Truly Was the Best
The heavyweight boxing division has long been the crown jewel of the sport, a stage for the biggest names, boldest personalities, and most intense rivalries. For years, three titans—Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, and Deontay Wilder—dominated the conversation, their names synonymous with power, skill, and charisma.
Now, as these former kings of the ring find themselves grappling with age, losses, and a new generation of challengers, one question looms large: Who truly was the best heavyweight of their era? Let’s dive into their careers, their defining moments, and the debate that’s dividing boxing fans.
Tyson Fury: The Gypsy King’s Unmatched Resilience
Tyson Fury’s journey to the top of the heavyweight division is nothing short of cinematic. Known for his towering frame, unorthodox style, and sharp wit, Fury defied expectations with his 2015 victory over Wladimir Klitschko, ending the Ukrainian’s decade-long reign.
Fury’s resilience, however, goes beyond the ring. After his victory over Klitschko, he faced personal battles with mental health and substance abuse, stepping away from the sport for nearly three years. His return in 2018 marked the beginning of a historic rivalry with Deontay Wilder, culminating in their unforgettable trilogy.
But was Tyson Fury truly the best? Critics argue that while Fury’s skill set is undeniable, his relatively thin resume of top-tier opponents leaves questions unanswered. His trilogy with Wilder showcased his brilliance, but his career lacks the consistency of prolonged dominance over a wide range of challengers.
Despite these critiques, Fury’s ability to adapt, his incredible ring IQ, and his undefeated record make a strong case for his status as the best of the era.
Anthony Joshua: The Star Who Carried Boxing on His Shoulders
Few fighters have captured the global spotlight like Anthony Joshua. With his chiseled physique, Olympic pedigree, and knockout power, Joshua became the face of boxing in the UK and beyond. His 2017 victory over Wladimir Klitschko in an all-time classic bout solidified his place as a star and the unifier of the heavyweight belts.
However, Joshua’s reign wasn’t without its setbacks. His shocking loss to Andy Ruiz Jr. in 2019 shook the boxing world, though he regained his titles in an immediate rematch. Later defeats to Oleksandr Usyk exposed weaknesses in his technical game, leading some to question his ability to adapt against elite opponents.
Does Anthony Joshua deserve the crown as the best heavyweight of the era? Supporters point to his marketability, global impact, and willingness to face all challengers. Critics, however, highlight his inability to decisively defeat Fury or Wilder, leaving a significant gap in his legacy.
Deontay Wilder: The Most Dangerous Puncher in Boxing History?
When it comes to raw power, few fighters in history can rival Deontay Wilder. The “Bronze Bomber” boasts a staggering 42 knockouts in 43 wins, with his thunderous right hand earning him the title of the most feared puncher of his generation.
Wilder’s reign as WBC heavyweight champion lasted five years, and his undefeated streak created an aura of invincibility. However, his technical limitations became glaring in his fights against Tyson Fury, where his reliance on power proved insufficient against Fury’s superior boxing skills.
Does Deontay Wilder’s power alone place him at the top? Fans argue that his ability to end fights with a single punch sets him apart, but detractors point to his lack of adaptability and his limited resume against top-tier opponents outside of Fury.
Who Truly Was the Best?
Determining the best heavyweight of this era isn’t easy, as each fighter’s strengths and weaknesses create a compelling case.
Tyson Fury stands out for his undefeated record, resilience, and adaptability in the ring.
Anthony Joshua brings star power, a strong resume, and a willingness to take on all comers.
Deontay Wilder is unmatched in raw power and knockout ability, creating unforgettable moments in the sport.
But who truly reigns supreme? It may depend on what you value most in a fighter. Is it the technical brilliance and unorthodox style of Fury? The charisma and consistency of Joshua? Or the sheer power and unpredictability of Wilder?
The Legacy of a Golden Era
As the heavyweight division transitions into a new chapter, with rising stars like Oleksandr Usyk, Joe Joyce, and others emerging, the era of Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, and Deontay Wilder remains a defining period in boxing history.
Their rivalries, contrasting styles, and larger-than-life personalities brought the heavyweight division back to prominence. Regardless of who you believe was the best, there’s no denying the impact they’ve had on the sport.
As fans continue to debate and dissect their legacies, one thing is certain: Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, and Deontay Wilder will forever be remembered as the trio that revived the heavyweight division—and left a lasting imprint on boxing history.
