Joshua eyes África before Fury: Ghana or Nigeria?

Anthony Joshua, the renowned boxer, is considering the possibility of fighting in Ghana and Nigeria before facing Tyson Fury in 2026, according to statements by Eddie Hearn, Matchroom promoter. Joshua, who will turn 36 next week, hasn’t stepped into the ring since his technical knockout defeat to Daniel Dubois in September 2024. After recovering from an elbow injury, Hearn indicated that Joshua will fight again at the end of this year or the beginning of 2026. It is rumored that Martin Bakole and Deontay Wilder are the main candidates to be Joshua’s next opponent, after his longest period of inactivity in his professional career. Bakole, 33 years old and originally from Congo, could be an option to fight in Nigeria. Wilder, 40 years old, achieved his second victory in six fights in June and is expected to fight in early 2026.

Initially I thought not, that AJ wouldn’t fight this year, but now it’s possible.

Eddie Hearn

Hearn revealed that Joshua is focused on returning to boxing with determination, seeking to become a three-time heavyweight world champion. Additionally, Hearn mentioned that they have received proposals from Africa, something that Joshua wants to do before retiring.

We have received a proposal from Ghana and now from Nigeria. I think it would be incredible for AJ to fight in Africa.

Eddie Hearn

Joshua and Hearn’s priority is to secure the long-awaited fight against their compatriot and also two-time world champion, Tyson Fury.

Hearn has held talks with Turki Alalshikh, a key figure in world boxing, about the possibility of a fight between Joshua and Fury. Hearn highlighted Joshua’s desire to face Fury and his motivation to achieve it. Joshua seeks to regain rhythm and activity in the ring before his expected fight against Fury in 2026. Hearn mentioned that he met in Riyadh with the authorities to discuss plans for Joshua, including the fight against Tyson Fury. Hearn believes that Turki Alalshikh is the only person capable of making the fight between Joshua and Fury happen, due to his ability to secure lucrative deals. Hearn stated that they are ready for the fight, highlighting Alalshikh’s ability to negotiate with both sides.