The former undisputed heavyweight champion of boxing Lennox Lewis has come out and criticised Anthony Joshua for his payday greed.This has come at a crunch time for the world of boxing, in particular the heavyweight division.The current top three heavyweights, which are Tyson Fury, Joshua and Deontay Wilder, are all looking for their next fights, after Fury and Wilder's recent controversial split decision draw.A rematch is set to take place between the heavyweight duo some time in the new year, and it is thought that the natural progression would be for Joshua to challenge the winner of that rematch for the WBC title.However, Lewis has claimed Joshua isn't interested in fighting either Fury or Wilder.The former heavyweight champion has disputed that Joshua is chasing money ahead of the greater good for his career.The 29-year-old last fought in September against Alexander Povetkin at Wembley, beating the Russian by knockout.The IBF, WBA and WBO champion is set to fight again in April, but his opponent is yet to be confirmed.Lewis has outlined this issue that Joshua's team offer flat fees to his opponents rather than splitting the payday income.
This often puts off the greater fighters, therefore limiting the potential for the Englishman's career.
It is common for the big fights to have split percentages, so Lewis makes a good point.
Is Joshua's greed standing in the way of career progression?
He already holds three of the four heavyweight titles in boxing; if he wants to be considered one of the greats at the end of his career, Joshua will have to hold them all and reign victorious over the division.
Historically, to be the best, you have to beat the best.
Deontay Wilder's record of 40 wins and 1 draw certainly makes him a high-class opponent.
If Joshua can conquer the undefeated American, then it could change how he is perceived in the sport and confirm his position among the best to have competed in boxing.
The 29-year-old from Watford is on the edge of greatness, but will have to shake his thirst for financial gain to do so.
Anthony Joshua needs to ask himself what he craves more, to be the richest, or the greatest.