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In the aftermath of his unanimous decision loss to Filip Hrgovic in Manchester, Joe Joyce faces mounting calls to retire from boxing. This defeat marks his fourth loss in five fights, prompting concerns about his future in the sport. Despite this, Joyce remains resolute in his desire to continue competing.
Joe Joyce hoped to salvage his career after a string of losses over the past few years. ‘The Juggernaut’ lost twice to Zhilei Zhang, with the rematch being more devastating than their first encounter. He followed this up with an unimpressive win over the mediocre Kash Ali, before facing an aged Derek Chisora, who he lost to in a sluggish performance.
Though initially scheduled to fight Dillian Whyte, Joyce ended up headlining Queensberry’s first card on DAZN against Filip Hrgovic, who hadn’t fought since his loss to Daniel Dubois on the Matchroom vs Queensberry 5v5 card.
Joyce surprised some with his showing, as many believed he would be stopped early and call it an end on his boxing career. He went the distance with the Croatian though, in what was a closer fight than many expected. Hrgovic won by unanimous decision, leaving Joyce with his fourth loss.
Joe Joyce Isn’t Ready to Retire Just Yet
Despite fans imploring him to consider his health, Joyce told DAZN after the fight: “Yeah [I want to continue],” he said. “It’s tough. He’s [Hrgovic] a great fighter and he’s been doing it a long time. Are you not entertained?”
Even Joyce’s promoter, Frank Warren, believes the 38-year-old heavyweight should consider retirement: “Joe has got to go and have a serious think about the future.”
Hrgovic also suggested Joyce should retire, citing his age and potential health risks that might occur from continuing in the sport.
Joyce was once seen as one of the most dangerous men in the division, especially after knockout wins over Daniel Dubois and Joseph Parker, but his losses to Zhang, who he faced voluntarily, derailed the momentum of his career, likely shutting him out of title contention for good.
If Joyce continues fighting, it remains to be seen who he might go up against next. With just one win in his last five fights, Joyce may have to resign himself to gatekeeper status, and realize his time at the top is well and truly over.
