Anthony Joshua is closing in on a return to the boxing ring, but it could be 2026 before it happens.
The two-time world heavyweight champion (now 28-4 as a professional) has been out of action since being knocked out by Daniel Dubois in a title challenge at Wembley Stadium in September 2024. He underwent elbow surgery in May, but it on the road to full fitness again now.
At the age of 35 it is clear AJ does not have too many fights left, and promoter Eddie Hearn has been at pains to point out that his choices now will be thought about long and hard.
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Per the Matchroom Boxing magnate, it appears there are two potential opponents – and both would be blockbuster fights. That would be Youtuber turned boxer Jake Paul, or Joshua’s big British rival Tyson Fury.
A Fury showdown – which has never happened yet despite all the hype – is possible now that ‘The Gypsy King’ has announced his comeback from retirement. But a Paul clash appears even closer.
Earlier this week Hearn confirmed there have been meaningful talks with Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions camp, and said the two teams are broadly aligned on all key points. He said if Jake wants the fight, it will happen, and it will impact the date when AJ gets back to action.
Hearn on Joshua return date
When asked if Joshua would fight this year, he said: “Not unlikely… but you know, if this fight [vs Jake Paul] was made for January or February, we obviously wouldn’t fight this year. But if the fight is not made, then there’s a good chance we could – might – fight this year.
“To be honest, like, at the moment there’s so much going on with that – potential site fees – and obviously see what Tyson Fury’s doing. We’re kind of like… he’s just relaxed at the moment. And I’m not saying he’s only gonna fight again if it’s the right opportunity, but he also wants to make sure it’s the right path and the right opportunity.
“So, once we find out if this Jake Paul [fight] is truly real – which will flush out certain – that will decide what we do. Because of course, like I said, we’re in for that fight if Jake really wants it.”
Joshua vs Yoka talk
One potential Joshua opponent mooted in recent days is former Olympic champion Tony Yoka. The 2016 Rio gold medal winner recently signed for Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions, prompting speculation that he could be in the mix to meet AJ.
When asked if there had been talks about a Joshua vs Yoka fight, Hearn responded: “Not with me. No. I, I know that there are some – we’ve had a couple of site offers for AJ to fight. And I know that someone mentioned Tony Yoka as a possible opponent. I’ve had no conversations with him, never talked numbers with him. Will AJ fight Tony Yoka? I doubt it, to be honest. But, who knows.”
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