Anthony Joshua is officially Matchroom for life after signing a new contract to stay with Eddie Hearn and his promotional behemoth for the rest of his ring career.
Now AJ’s promotional future is locked up, the world awaits the next significant domino to fall – where will his future fights be broadcast in the UK?
Joshua has been fighting on Sky Sports for the whole of his professional career, but Saturday’s world heavyweight title defence against Oleksandr Usyk is the last of his current deal.
After the Usyk fight we expect a huge scramble for AJ’s services, with DAZN expected to be a major player. The streaming service has already enticed Hearn and Matchroom away from Sky (Joshua is separate to that deal).
AJ delighted to continue Hearn alliance
For now though Joshua knows he will spend the rest of his professional carer being promoted by Hearn and Matchroom, something he is delighted about.
“We’ve built some great foundations over the years and I appreciate Matchroom – the company, the team, the family business,” said the reigning IBF, WBA and WBO heavyweight champion.
“That’s kind of what drew me towards you guys as well, the integrity that the Hearns have when it comes to boxing and business.
“I’ve felt comfortable during my years as a boxer and I always felt that the business outside of sport is harder than the actual fighting due to the history and some of the problems that some fighters have had. So, to be with Matchroom Sport has been a blessing for myself, my family and my team.
“Outside of that, what Matchroom Sport have done is created an environment for boxing fans. The shows that we have managed to put on have been phenomenal. When I walk out to fight, I look around and I’m like, ‘mate, this is unbelievable’.
“From where we began, to the middle of the journey, the foundations we have created are phenomenal and I can’t wait to see what the future holds. In my humble opinion, what better place to be than Matchroom Boxing? I have heard that my signature was hot property. I’m happy where I am. A handshake is good enough for me, but the signature solidifies it and I’m happy where my signature is.
“Thank you to Eddie Hearn, Barry Hearn and the family, Frank Smith and all of the Matchroom staff, as well as Freddie Cunningham and the team at 258MGT.”
Hearn on belief and loyalty
Hearn has promoted Joshua since he turned professional some eight years ago, and together they have become the most famous double act in British boxing.
Eddie said: “When AJ and I met in the Matchroom HQ eight years ago, we had a vision and a dream that we shared together. There is something quite special about sharing a journey together from the professional debut to the day the gloves are hung up, but it takes a huge amount of belief and an unwavering loyalty. Over those eight years, AJ has been the face of British boxing, inspiring a new generation and audience to the sport we love.
“This is the fourth and final promotional agreement we have signed together, and I am honoured that AJ has confirmed his future with Matchroom. Just like we did from the debut, myself and the great team at Matchroom will continue to work relentlessly for Anthony in the many chapters that remain.”
