What's Happening?
Anthony Joshua, the former IBF, WBA, and WBO heavyweight champion, is being called out by Arslanbek Makhmudov for a promised fight. Makhmudov, who recently defeated Dave Allen in Sheffield, claims that
Joshua had promised to fight him if he won against Allen. Joshua, who has not fought since his knockout loss to Daniel Dubois, is planning a comeback that could include a highly anticipated match against Tyson Fury. Makhmudov, with 19 knockouts in 21 wins, is positioning himself as a potential opponent for Joshua. Meanwhile, Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, is organizing a boxing event in Ghana, which could pave the way for a future fight involving Joshua in Africa, reminiscent of Muhammad Ali's historic Rumble in the Jungle.
Why It's Important?
The potential fight between Anthony Joshua and Arslanbek Makhmudov is significant for the heavyweight boxing landscape. Joshua's return to the ring is highly anticipated, and a fight with Makhmudov could serve as a crucial step in his comeback journey. Makhmudov's rising profile and knockout power make him a formidable opponent, adding intrigue to the matchup. Additionally, the prospect of Joshua fighting in Africa holds cultural and historical significance, potentially drawing global attention and reviving interest in boxing on the continent. The broader implications include the potential for a future mega-fight between Joshua and Tyson Fury, which would be a major event in the boxing world.
What's Next?
As Anthony Joshua plots his return, the boxing community is keenly watching for official announcements regarding his next opponent. If Joshua honors his promise to Makhmudov, it could set the stage for a high-stakes bout. Meanwhile, Eddie Hearn's plans for a boxing event in Ghana could serve as a precursor to a larger event featuring Joshua, potentially in 2026. The ongoing discussions with Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority suggest that a Joshua vs. Fury fight is being seriously considered, with financial backing being a key factor. Fans and stakeholders are eagerly awaiting further developments in Joshua's comeback strategy.
