Eddie Hearn: Joshua Considering Africa Fights, Still Eyes Fury Clash
According to Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn, Anthony Joshua is weighing offers to fight in Ghana or Nigeria as he prepares for his eventual return, and ultimately hopes to book a showdown with Tyson Fury in 2026.
Joshua (record 28-4, 25 KOs) hasn’t stepped into the ring since his knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024. After recovering from elbow surgery, Hearn says Joshua could make his comeback either later this year or in early 2026.
Two names currently in the mix for Joshua’s return fight are Martin Bakole and Deontay Wilder. Bakole, from the Democratic Republic of Congo, has been suggested as a possible opponent in a fight hosted in Nigeria. Wilder, meanwhile, remains a compelling option as the veteran American weighs his next move.
Hearn admitted he initially didn’t think Joshua would fight again this year, but after visiting him in Dubai, he’s certain Joshua is focused and determined. Joshua reportedly wants to become a three-time heavyweight champion, and that ambition is driving his comeback plans.
“We have had an approach from Ghana, and now Nigeria. I think AJ fighting in Africa would be incredible.”
Hearn also noted, however, that the path back is tricky: “If he fights again in February or March, he will have been out of the ring for 18 months… you can’t just fight some random opponent ranked 100th in the world over eight rounds — especially when you’re Anthony Joshua.”
Joshua’s top aim remains a bout with Tyson Fury, whom he has pursued for years. Fury, 37, last fought when Oleksandr Usyk outpointed him in December, and has since hinted at retirement. Hearn believes a deal with Turki Alalshikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, could be the key to making that fight happen.
Hearn remarked that he’s never heard Joshua speak about an opponent as he does Fury — not just wanting to fight him, but insisting he wants to “knock him spark out.” He said that if Alalshikh can navigate the financial and logistical side of the deal, the Fury fight is within reach.
In short: Joshua is actively exploring comeback paths, including fights in Africa, and remains laser-focused on finally squaring off with Fury. The pieces might just be coming together.