Anthony Joshua is currently in discussions to arrange fights, but time is pressing for a bout in 2025. The heavyweight champion has not fought in nearly 14 months, following a surprising fifth-round defeat to Daniel Dubois last September. This loss disrupted Joshua’s rise in boxing under trainer Ben Davison.
Plans for a Tune-Up Fight
Promoter Eddie Hearn shared insights during the grand arrivals of Chris Eubank Jr. vs. Conor Benn II, stating that a preliminary fight could materialize soon, potentially before the year concludes. Hearn mentioned, “We’ve already got opponents that we’ve been talking to about a run-out fight.”
Joshua’s Return to the Ring
Hearn emphasized the importance of getting Joshua back in the ring without the pressures of extensive media obligations. He noted the need for Joshua to “just chill out, turn up on Wednesday or Thursday, weigh in, wrap your hands and go and fight.” Hearn’s focus remains on refining Joshua’s fighting rhythm. He indicated that every fight puts Joshua in a stadium with 60,000 spectators, escalating the pressure in his return.
Potential Opponents
A matchup against YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul has been suggested. Paul expressed interest in taking on someone larger, considering it a greater challenge than existing options. “People are telling me to fight someone my own size. OK, how about I fight somebody who is bigger than me?” he told ESPN.
Status of Discussions
- Hearn confirmed there have been discussions regarding a fight with Paul.
- However, no formal offer exists at this moment.
- Hearn noted, “If we were to have a run-out, a run-out against Jake Paul would be quite pleasant.”
While a low-profile fight seems likely for Joshua in 2025, Hearn clarified it would likely not involve a prestigious opponent unless it is Paul. “If he fights this year, you probably won’t even hear about it unless it’s Jake Paul,” he stated.
Future Prospects
Joshua’s previous defeat to Dubois interrupted his four-fight winning streak, which followed two losses to Oleksandr Usyk. Meanwhile, rival Tyson Fury is expected to return to boxing in 2026, leaving the door open for a potential clash with Joshua in the future.
