Anthony Joshua, the renowned boxer, is seriously considering the possibility of fighting in Ghana and Nigeria before facing Tyson Fury in an expected fight in 2026, according to Eddie Hearn, Matchroom promoter. 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 could return to action at the end of this year or the beginning of 2026. Martin Bakole and Deontay Wilder, former WBC heavyweight champion, are some of the names being considered as potential opponents for Joshua in his return, after the longest period of inactivity of his professional career. Bakole, 33 years old and originally from Congo, could be Joshua’s opponent in Nigeria. Wilder, 40 years old, achieved his second victory in six fights in June and is expected to fight in early 2026.
Hearn also revealed that proposals have been received from Africa, a desire that Joshua has expressed before his retirement from boxing. Joshua and Hearn’s main priority is to finalize the expected fight with Fury, also a two-time world champion, who hasn’t fought since Oleksandr Usyk defeated him on points. Joshua and Fury have been in talks for the past five years for a possible fight.Initially I thought no, that Joshua wouldn’t fight this year, but now it’s possible.
Eddie Hearn
