Anthony Joshua’s Longest Hiatus
The boxing community is abuzz as a year has lapsed since Anthony Joshua last stepped into the ring, marking the longest duration of inactivity in his career. The last time he experienced such a hiatus was during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, but this absence has now extended to 13 months following his defeat to Daniel Dubois.
Strategic Comeback Ahead
As Joshua approaches his 35th birthday on October 15, the need for a strategic comeback becomes paramount. Having suffered a dramatic knockout loss against Dubois, Joshua’s next steps carry significant implications for his future milestones, including the potential of returning to the ring to secure a third heavyweight title or finally confronting his long-time rival Tyson Fury, who has hinted at coming out of retirement.
Timeline and Potential Opponents
The timeline of Joshua’s return has been a subject of speculation; promoter Eddie Hearn has indicated a comeback could occur in early 2026, though recent reports suggest the possibility of a December bout. A significant factor in this delay is Joshua’s recent elbow surgery, which followed months of uncertainty surrounding his physical condition after his last fight, coupled with indications that he might need to address another injury.
As for potential opponents, boxing enthusiasts have long clamored for an all-British showdown against Fury or a clash with the formidable Deontay Wilder. While discussions have taken shape regarding a matchup with Wilder, current trends indicate that both potential foes are likely to engage in warm-up matches before pursuing a fight with Joshua. One such name emerging as a viable opponent is Arslanbek Makhmudov, who recently secured a points victory over Dave Allen. Makhmudov’s triumph has sparked conversations around a possible contest with Joshua, considered a fitting precursor for a larger fight next year.
Previously linked opponents like Tony Yoka have been sidelined in these discussions, while other potential matchups such as with Agit Kabayel have also faded from the limelight. Meanwhile, the upcoming bout on October 25 between Fabio Wardley and Joseph Parker may yield the winner as a candidate for a future fight with Joshua, particularly since Joshua has previously outmatched Parker in 2018.
Exhibition Fight Possibilities
A less conventional but intriguing option is a potential exhibition fight against social media star turned boxer Jake Paul, who had flirted with a clash against Joshua before opting for a bout with Gervonta Davis in November. However, Paul maintains that revisiting the Joshua matchup could still be in the cards.
What’s at Stake for Joshua
Ultimately, what’s at stake for Joshua is multifaceted. While a fight with Paul carries its share of legacy risks, a matchup with Makhmudov would not jeopardize his historical status but rather test his current standing in the heavyweight sphere. After Makhmudov’s past performances, fans may question Joshua’s ability to deliver an emphatic win, which is crucial for restoring his reputation and ensuring his path back to title contention. As the boxing world watches closely, the upcoming months promise to be pivotal and consequential for Anthony Joshua’s career trajectory.
