Anthony Joshua Considers Fights in Africa Before Facing Tyson Fury
The renowned boxer Anthony Joshua is evaluating offers to fight in Ghana and Nigeria before an expected showdown against Tyson Fury in 2026, according to statements from Eddie Hearn, Matchroom promoter. Joshua, who will turn 36 next week, hasn’t stepped into the ring since his knockout loss 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 possible rivals for Joshua’s 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 revealed that Joshua is focused and motivated to become a three-time heavyweight world champion. Additionally, Hearn mentioned approaches from Africa, something Joshua wants to do before his retirement. “We have received a proposal from Ghana and now from Nigeria. I think it would be incredible for AJ to fight in Africa,” Hearn commented. Joshua and Hearn’s priority is to secure an expected fight with Fury, who hasn’t boxed since being outboxed by Oleksandr Usyk.Initially, I didn’t think AJ would fight this year, but now it’s possible.
Eddie Hearn
