Boxing promoter, Eddie Hearn has confirmed that former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua will return to action later this year, with plans to face a top-15 ranked opponent in November or December.
The fight is expected to serve as a tune-up bout to keep the British star active and sharp as his camp works toward a blockbuster clash with WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury in 2026.
Anthony Joshua last fought in March 2025, defeating [insert last opponent’s name if desired] as part of his comeback trail following his back-to-back defeats to Usyk in 2021 and 2022.
The upcoming fight is expected to help the 34-year-old maintain momentum and sharpen his form before a potential all-British heavyweight super fight with Fury, one of the most anticipated bouts in boxing history.
A Tune-Up Before the Mega Fight
Speaking about Joshua’s plans, Hearn made it clear that the Fury showdown remains the ultimate goal, but noted that the decision lies in Fury’s camp.
“He will return in November, December. It takes him an hour to walk over there. He talks to everyone, photos, and you’re listening.”
“I’m listening to the public. When are you fighting Fury, when’s he going to fight you? And obviously that’s out of our control.”
“You know, he likes to do some strange things.”
Hearn criticized Fury’s decision-making, pointing to his recent announcement that he plans to face Oleksandr Usyk for a third time despite losing their previous two encounters.
“Now he’s saying he’s going to fight Usyk for the third time. He’s already lost to him twice. I mean, the fight that everyone wants to see is AJ against Fury, but that’s really down to Tyson Fury.”
Anthony Joshua Staying Ready for 2026 Mega Clash
Hearn emphasized that Joshua’s camp is prepared and focused on securing a dominant performance in his comeback fight to set up the highly anticipated Fury bout.
“We’re ready to go, but he will return in November, December. He’ll fight a top 15 guy, hopefully come back with an impressive win, and then move into those Tyson Fury fights in 2026.”
