Anthony Joshua’s Comeback Plans
Anthony Joshua is poised for a comeback, although his anticipated match this December in Accra, Ghana, won’t materialize. Matchroom, Joshua’s promotional company, has confirmed that he won’t be partaking in the boxing event slated to take place just five days before Christmas. Instead, plans are being made for Joshua to fight in February 2025, with Accra likely to host this much-anticipated return.
Significance of 2023
This year marks a unique point in Joshua’s decade-long professional career—it’s the first year he hasn’t stepped into the ring. As he navigates this unexpected hiatus, the urgency for Joshua to fight has amplified.
Potential Matchups
Among discussions surrounding his comeback is the long-rumored bout against Tyson Fury. This match has been a topic of conversation since June 2020, despite Fury’s recent focus on a potential final encounter with Oleksandr Usyk, who has expressed intentions to return to the ring in 2026, making the heavyweight division somewhat dormant at present.
Challenges of Returning
Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter, noted the challenges of returning from a significant loss, especially in a less prominent fight.
Joshua last faced a defeat against Daniel Dubois in September 2024 at Wembley Stadium—a match witnessed by nearly 95,000 fans. Now, the strategic path toward a comeback appears clear; Hearn mentioned that although Joshua’s return may not headline an event initially, any fight in California would serve as a crucial step back into action without the pressure of being the main attraction.
Historical Context
Historically, boxers often seek a less challenging bout after a notable loss; Nigel Benn‘s loss to Chris Eubank followed closely by a win against Robbie Sims illustrates this tactical retreat into a less intense competitive atmosphere. Joshua, who has captivated audiences since his first major fight against Dillian Whyte in 2015, is aware of what a lower-stakes fight can accomplish.
Future Aspirations
Earlier this year, Joshua’s visit to Accra coincided with a meeting with Azumah Nelson, a legendary figure in African boxing. This encounter reignited discussions about Joshua’s long-standing desire to stage a fight in Africa, ideally Nigeria—his parents’ homeland. The excitement surrounding this possibility combines historical resonance, much like the legendary “Rumble in the Jungle” held in 1974, which, despite its significant distance from Accra, holds a nostalgic allure for boxing fans.
Conclusion
Joshua’s potential fight in Ghana, along with Nelson by his side, would not only draw international attention but also serve as critical preparation for future high-stakes matches, ideally positioning him against opponents like Fury. As the heavyweight boxing scene remains suspended in uncertainty, Joshua’s calculated moves could grant him an advantage in the competitive landscape.
