Anthony Joshua is reportedly preparing for a significant return to the heavyweight division, with promoter Eddie Hearn identifying two former world champions as the primary targets for his comeback. This follows a period of absence for the British star after reports emerged involving a vehicle incident in Nigeria that sidelined the former two-time unified champion. The situation left fans and analysts speculating whether the Londoner would return to the elite level of the sport.
The path back to the ring has been described as a cautious process, but Hearn remains confident in Joshua’s standing among the top tier of heavyweights. The Matchroom Boxing head has indicated that discussions are currently focused on pairing Joshua with either Deontay Wilder or Daniel Dubois. Both potential matchups are seen as high-risk, high-reward opportunities for a fighter looking to re-establish his credentials in a division that has continued to evolve during his time away.
Evaluating the Wilder Versus Dubois Dilemma
The prospect of a clash with Deontay Wilder is the long-awaited pairing that many felt had missed its window of opportunity. However, with both veterans now facing pressure to remain relevant at the top of the sport, the timing for a high-profile shootout may actually be more favorable than in previous years. Wilder remains a formidable threat due to his proven knockout power, and for Joshua, a victory over the American would serve as a major statement of intent. As the heavyweight rankings update continues to shift, these types of matchups are seen as vital for clearing the path toward future title opportunities.
Alternatively, a domestic clash with Daniel Dubois presents a different narrative. Dubois has established himself as a physical force and represents a younger generation of British talent eager to seize the mantle from established names. A victory over Dubois would not only solidify Joshua’s position as a premier UK heavyweight but also provide a logical route back toward mandatory challenger status. The stakes for such a bout would be substantial, given the current volatility of the heavyweight landscape.
Recovery and Rebuilding Focus
Joshua’s period away from active competition was reportedly influenced by the recovery time needed following the incident in Nigeria. Hearn has suggested that this hiatus allowed for a mental reset, with the fighter spending time reconnecting with his heritage while undergoing rehabilitation. Such events often serve as a turning point for veteran athletes, and the boxing world has been watching closely to see how the layoff affects Joshua’s physical and psychological approach to the sport.
Reports suggest that Joshua has resumed training and is meeting the physical milestones required for a return to professional competition. The strategy moving forward appears to favor a substantial “banger” rather than a traditional tune-up fight. Hearn has signaled that Joshua is primarily interested in bouts that carry commercial weight and move the needle globally. This aligns with the current trend of veteran stars seeking legacy-defining moments, much like how Manny Pacquiao signals a return to the ring in his own respective division, demonstrating that the appetite for big-name spectacles remains high.
The Evolving Heavyweight Picture
The heavyweight landscape is notoriously fast-moving, and despite Joshua’s stature, the division has not remained static during his convalescence. New contenders are climbing the ladders of various sanctioning bodies, and the traditional hierarchy is under constant threat. According to the latest boxing results and fixtures, the division is currently in a state of flux, meaning Joshua will likely need to make an immediate impact to reclaim his spot at the very top of the pile.
The commercial pressure of the sport also dictates that Joshua needs an opponent capable of filling a major arena. With other top-tier rivals currently occupied with their own contractual obligations, finding a dance partner who brings both name recognition and competitive peril is essential. Whether it is the raw power of Wilder or the rising ambition of Dubois, both options would ensure that Joshua’s return is treated as a major international event.
While definitive dates have not been confirmed, recent indications from the Matchroom camp suggest that negotiations are moving toward a potential announcement. Possible locations for such a return include international hubs known for hosting major sports festivals, though a high-profile stadium event in the United Kingdom remains a perennial possibility for a domestic showdown. The coming months are expected to reveal whether Joshua can successfully navigate one of the more challenging chapters of his career and re-enter the frame for a third world title reign.
