“Does he need protecting from himself?” Jordan said to talkSPORT Boxing about Joshua. “Stick Anthony in with Moses Itauma or Daniel Dubois… he might get his ass ripped out.”

Jordan’s list may have been too short.

Itauma and Dubois are obvious dangers because of their youth, power and aggression. Joshua has shown vulnerability in several recent fights, making either matchup look far more dangerous than it would have only a few years ago. The list extends beyond those two.

Frank Sanchez has the speed, timing, power and counterpunching to exploit Joshua’s defensive flaws. Filip Hrgovic applies relentless pressure behind a heavy right hand. Fabio Wardley owns the type of one-punch power that can erase mistakes in an instant. David Adeleye remains a dangerous fighter because he punches hard enough to change a fight with a single shot. Joshua no longer looks durable enough to dismiss those threats.

Joshua’s comeback against Prenga showed determination, but it also showed that he can still be hurt by opponents operating below world-class level. Against younger heavyweights with elite power, another recovery may never come.

That is why Fury makes sense. Both former champions have declined, yet the fight remains one of boxing’s biggest attractions. It delivers the payday and the legacy bout without forcing Joshua into the type of matchup that now appears stacked against him.

Simon’s view may sound harsh, but the evidence inside the ring suggests Joshua’s team should take it seriously.