I don’t think there’s any doubt that Fury’s popularity is greater than AJ’s. Fury does far more talk shows, more documentaries, has published more books, advertises more merchandise, is a mental health ambassador, has released a Christmas single, his wife has released a book, his father has a DNA clothing range, his brother was on love island but most importantly for me, he has won his big fights. Apart from the sexist and homophobic remarks he made back in 2015, I don’t see anyone giving him a hard time. He’s a superstar.
A natural personality that people can warm to unlike the fake Matchroom manufactured 'Humble One' who simply has zero charisma.
For me his next fight should be in the UK. It's time for him to get the massive homecoming treatment and sell out a stadium, which will finally shut Hearn up.
Probably not but you know this media they are leaches/scum, when you are on top they want a piece of you.
The thing is, AJ and Fury are both very popular but neither of them will be as popular as the other in the same way. They have both crossed over, but in different arenas. Let's face it, Anthony Joshua is far more commercially viable for endorsement. Not because Fury "has said some dodgy things" (AJ has too) but because AJ looks the part. For a corporation trying to sell sportswear, energy drinks or men's deodorants etc. to general public, it's a no-brainer. He's a good, clean hard-working athlete with a great body, a smile, and a simple work ethic. But Fury's the one who is building legendary status on the streets, in the minds of the people. As a fighter and a character, kind of a folk hero. Yes, he's trying to cash in on his success too, that's the name of the game, but his appeal isn't as a mainstream role model athlete. His appeal is his based on his unique character and fighting prowess. He's a natural showman and a natural fighter and he's like this big fat gypsy giant from another time.
BT Sport's social media accounts are already pushing the Old Trafford thing. Fury vs Whyte at Old Trafford in spring next year would be great.
The public don't really care about a lone isolated PED violation or allegation, from an unimportant fight, years ago. It's too commonplace, and is forgotten quickly. "abhorrent comments" ? It's subjective, but according to the tabloid media, AJ has made them too. No one cares. AJ has been accused of making sexist and racist comments. No one cares. And no one cares if Fury once did either. The only people who care are people looking for excuses to "hate" Fury or AJ.
Head to head, Fury is a tough fight for anyone in heavyweight history, but his resume is lacking the top names to be considered along the all time greats, in my opinion. In Fury's time at the top of the sport the top fighters have been Wlad, AJ, Wilder, and now Usyk. He has beat two of them. If he can beat the other two, then he has proven he is the best of his era and deserves the right to be in the conversation as one of the greats. Obviously, Joshua's situation is a little tricky. If he loses again to Usyk, he will either retire or have to rebuild. Even if Joshua loses, though, he would still be a decent name on Fury's resume. Not as good as Fury beating an undefeated Joshua, or beating him after the Ruiz rematch, but, still, a decent win all the same, and a win that will add a bit to Fury's legacy.
