Anthony Joshua, former unified heavyweight champion, is currently out of action due to elbow surgery, but already has several options in mind for his return to the ring this year.
Fury’s Challenge
One of the most appealing options is an anticipated British showdown against Tyson Fury. Both boxers have been close to finalizing a fight for years, without it materializing. After Fury’s consecutive defeats to Oleksandr Usyk last year, a window of opportunity for the match seemed to open. However, Fury surprisingly announced his retirement in January.
Despite rumors of a possible return earlier this month, Fury took to social media to confirm that he is happily retired.
This is what retirement looks like for the Gypsy King. Not bad. I’m in no rush to get back in the ring and get my face punched in. What would I go back for? I asked myself that question. So here we are. I’m retired and I’m going to stay retired. I have nothing to prove to anyone and nothing to come back for.
Tyson Fury
Amidst the uncertainty surrounding Fury’s return, Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, addressed his boxer’s future once he returns.
Hearn stated that 35-year-old Joshua has the desire to avenge his shocking fifth-round knockout defeat to Dubois last September, if the opportunity arises. However, if the fight against Fury comes up, that will be the main goal. Hearn is not sure if Fury’s retirement is definitive, regardless of what the former heavyweight champion says on social media.I just don’t think he can leave it. You know why? Because he’s not on the decline. He’s still at the top of his faculties and it’s very difficult to walk away from a fight like Anthony Joshua’s when you’ve still got it. And that’s why I think it will happen.
Eddie Hearn
Other Possible Rivals
Another option for Joshua is a showdown against former heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder, 39. A fight between Joshua and Wilder was discussed several years ago, when Joshua was the unified champion and Wilder held the WBC title. Financial negotiations did not come to fruition and each went their separate ways.
If Wilder defeats Tyrrell Herndon in June, a fight between Joshua and Wilder could be back on the table.
Hearn stated that if Wilder returns and looks sensational, they will probably talk about it again. He doesn’t rule it out at all. It will always be an exciting fight, but the focus is certainly first on Fury and possibly Dubois if he can overcome Usyk.
