Who Will Anthony Joshua Face Next After a Year Away From the Ring?

Anthony Joshua's recent year-long hiatus from boxing has raised questions about the future of the former heavyweight champion following his crushing defeat to Daniel Dubois last year. With a potential comeback on the horizon, Joshua's ability to reclaim his status in the heavyweight division hangs in the balance as he navigates injuries and the emergence of new contenders.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Joshua has not fought in over a year, marking the longest break of his professional career.
• Injury issues, particularly elbow surgery, have delayed his return to the ring.
• A warm-up fight against a lower-profile opponent is likely before tackling bigger names.
• The heavyweight division is evolving, with new contenders like Moses Itauma emerging.
• Joshua’s future opponents could include Dillian Whyte or even a highly anticipated match against Tyson Fury.

A Year of Reflection and Recovery

On that fateful night at Wembley Stadium, Joshua faced a dramatic fall from grace. Once a symbol of British boxing dominance, he was knocked down four times by Dubois, leading to an overwhelming defeat. This marked the fourth loss in his career and raised immediate concerns regarding his future in the sport. Joshua's post-fight press conference was characterised by a mix of defiance and vulnerability, as he faced relentless questions about retirement.

Fast forward to today, Joshua remains absent from the ring. The year-long gap has raised eyebrows, especially as it is the longest he has gone without competition in his professional career. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, confirmed that Joshua underwent surgery to address persistent elbow issues, which had contributed to his inactivity. Recent social media posts show Joshua back in training, fuelling speculation about his return.

Preparing for a Comeback

Joshua's anticipated comeback in January or February 2024 is likely to feature a lower-profile opponent as he seeks to regain his rhythm. This cautious approach comes after a tumultuous year where heavyweight boxing has continued to evolve. With new contenders rising through the ranks, Joshua cannot afford to underestimate his next opponent.

The Heavyweight Landscape

The heavyweight division has been in a state of flux, especially following Oleksandr Usyk's reign as champion. Dubois, who previously defeated Joshua, suffered a loss to Usyk, demonstrating the dangers of the rapidly changing hierarchy in heavyweight boxing.

Joseph Parker stands poised as a potential title challenger, while 20-year-old Moses Itauma is gaining traction as a future star. Itauma's rise poses a challenge for Joshua, as he has fallen out of the top ten rankings in the International Boxing Federation (IBF). This shift in rankings highlights the urgency for Joshua to make a decisive comeback.

Joshua’s Historical Struggles

Throughout his career, Joshua has battled through injuries, often returning to the ring under less-than-ideal circumstances. He has previously fought with conditions such as glandular fever and a fractured back, showing a remarkable capacity for resilience. However, at 35 years old, the toll of continuous fights is becoming increasingly apparent.

The Pressure of Expectations

Frank Smith, CEO of Matchroom, emphasises the pressure surrounding Joshua's return. The stakes are high; a loss could complicate his path back to contention, given the scrutiny he faces from fans and the media. Joshua's commercial appeal remains significant, but his next steps are crucial for his legacy.

The Road Ahead: Strategic Choices

As Joshua prepares for his return, the question of who he will face next looms large. Potential opponents include Martin Bakole, Deontay Wilder, and Tony Yoka, all of whom could provide lucrative matchups. However, unfinished business with Dillian Whyte also adds intrigue to Joshua's future prospects, especially after a rematch was postponed due to Whyte's failed drug test.

Emerging Threats: The Rising Stars

Joshua's potential match against Itauma poses a significant risk. Although Itauma has yet to achieve the same level of recognition, his youth and talent could present a formidable challenge for Joshua. The need for caution is paramount, as a loss at this stage could severely damage Joshua's reputation and future opportunities.

The Tyson Fury Fight: A Long-Standing Dream

The long-anticipated clash with Tyson Fury remains a tantalising prospect. Despite both fighters being past their prime, the financial incentives and public interest make it a compelling match. Fury's recent retirement announcement adds uncertainty to this potential bout, but the landscape of heavyweight boxing has shown that retirements are often temporary.

Looking Beyond: The Jake Paul Factor

There were talks of a crossover fight between Joshua and influencer-turned-boxer Jake Paul, but recent developments suggest that this matchup may not materialise soon. Paul is scheduled to face Gervonta Davis, a fight that could impact his future endeavours in the sport.

Assessing Joshua's Next Steps

For now, Joshua's immediate focus will likely be on a warm-up fight, similar to his return against Jermaine Franklin after his defeats to Usyk. While these early matches can help regain confidence, the heavyweight division is filled with new threats, and Joshua must be prepared to adapt quickly.

Conclusion: A New Chapter Awaits

As Anthony Joshua's return approaches, the implications for his career are profound. With a year of inactivity behind him and the heavyweight division evolving rapidly, he faces the daunting task of reclaiming his position among boxing’s elite. His journey back to the top will not only define his legacy but also impact the heavyweight landscape for years to come. What remains to be seen is whether Joshua can rise again and prove that his story is far from over.

FAQs

Why has Anthony Joshua been inactive for so long?

Anthony Joshua has been inactive for over a year primarily due to an elbow injury that required surgery, delaying his return to the ring.

Who might Anthony Joshua fight next?

Joshua's next fight is likely to be against a lower-profile opponent as a warm-up before potentially facing bigger names like Dillian Whyte or Tyson Fury.

What impact does Joshua's age have on his career?

At 35 years old, Joshua's age means that injuries may take longer to heal and recovery becomes more critical, influencing his training and fight strategy.

Is Anthony Joshua still a contender for the heavyweight title?

While Joshua has fallen out of the top ten rankings, he remains a significant contender due to his past achievements and commercial appeal, but he must win his upcoming fights to re-establish himself.

What are the current dynamics in the heavyweight division?

The heavyweight division is witnessing a shift with new contenders like Moses Itauma rising, while established fighters like Usyk and Dubois maintain their positions as champions, making the landscape competitive.