Anthony Joshua Considers Fights in Africa Before Facing Tyson Fury
The renowned boxer Anthony Joshua is evaluating offers to fight in Ghana and Nigeria, prior to an expected match with Tyson Fury in 2026, according to statements from Eddie Hearn, promoter of Matchroom. Joshua, who will turn 36 next week, hasn’t been in the ring since his knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024. After recovering from an elbow injury, Hearn indicated that the boxer will return to action at the end of this year or the beginning of 2026. It is speculated that Martin Bakole and former WBC heavyweight world champion Deontay Wilder could be Joshua’s next opponents, marking the longest period of inactivity in his professional career. Bakole, 33 years old and originally from Congo, is an option for Joshua to fight in Nigeria. Wilder, 40 years old, has only achieved two victories in his last six fights.Hearn revealed that proposals have been received from Africa, something Joshua wants to finalize before retiring from boxing. “We have received a proposal from Ghana and now from Nigeria. I think it would be incredible for AJ to fight in Africa,” Hearn added. Joshua and Hearn’s main priority is to secure the expected fight with Fury. Both boxers have been in talks for the last five years without the fight materializing.“Initially I thought not, but now it’s possible that AJ will fight this year,” Hearn commented.
Eddie Hearn
