What's Happening?
Anthony Joshua is exploring offers to fight in Ghana and Nigeria as he prepares for a potential high-profile match against Tyson Fury in 2026. According to Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn, Joshua, who has not fought since his knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024, is recovering from elbow surgery and is expected to return to the ring either late this year or early next year. Potential opponents for Joshua include Martin Bakole and Deontay Wilder. Hearn emphasized Joshua's motivation to become a three-time world heavyweight champion, noting that Joshua is keen on fighting in Africa before retiring. Talks have been ongoing for a fight with Fury, a two-time world champion, but a match has yet to materialize despite discussions over the past five years.
Why It's Important?
The potential fight between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury is significant for the boxing world, as it represents a long-awaited clash between two of the sport's most prominent figures. A fight in Africa would not only fulfill Joshua's personal aspirations but also expand the global reach of boxing, potentially drawing significant attention and revenue. The involvement of influential figures like Turki Alalshikh, who has a reputation for organizing major boxing events, underscores the financial and logistical complexities involved in arranging such high-profile matches. The outcome of these negotiations could reshape the heavyweight division, impacting rankings and future title opportunities.
What's Next?
Joshua's next steps involve finalizing his opponent for a return fight, with potential bouts against Martin Bakole or Deontay Wilder. Meanwhile, negotiations for the Tyson Fury fight continue, with Saudi Arabia emerging as a possible venue due to its capacity to host large-scale events. The timeline for Joshua's return and the Fury fight will depend on his recovery and readiness to compete at a high level after a significant layoff. The boxing community and fans are likely to closely monitor these developments, as they could lead to one of the most anticipated heavyweight bouts in recent history.
