When fans search for “Anthony Joshua fight,” they aren’t merely looking for results; they’re following a saga. Joshua’s name has become synonymous with modern heavyweight boxing. His journey, defined by raw strength, disciplined athleticism, and humility, has captivated millions. From his Olympic triumph in London to his rise as a unified world champion and subsequent comebacks, each fight has told a different chapter of his story.
This article delves deep into that journey exploring his early career, key fights, recent losses, and future prospects. We’ll uncover not only what makes Anthony Joshua a global sports icon but also what lies ahead as he works toward another title run.
Key Takeaways
- Anthony Joshua’s boxing career has been marked by major highs and dramatic defeats, including a recent knockout loss in 2024.
- His record stands at 28 wins, 4 losses, with a very high knockout ratio (~89 %)
- The most recent “Anthony Joshua fight” was a fifth-round knockout loss to Daniel Dubois at Wembley in September 2024.
- Going forward, his team is planning a careful comeback, possibly in 2025–2026, with various opponents under consideration including Tyson Fury, Martin Bakole, and Jake Paul
From Amateur Gold to Professional Greatness
Anthony Joshua’s ascent in boxing began with his gold medal victory at the 2012 London Olympics, a moment that introduced him as one of Britain’s brightest prospects. Shortly afterward, he turned professional in October 2013, embarking on a journey that would see him dominate the heavyweight scene within just a few short years.
In his early professional bouts, Joshua showcased explosive power and technical precision. Between 2013 and 2015, he amassed an undefeated streak, often finishing fights within the first few rounds. His combination of agility and knockout ability distinguished him from other heavyweights of his generation. In April 2016, Joshua captured the IBF heavyweight title by defeating Charles Martin, announcing his arrival as a true contender on the global stage.
Over the next two years, Joshua’s career reached new heights. He added the WBA (Super) and IBO titles to his collection after defeating Wladimir Klitschko in a thrilling 2017 contest at Wembley Stadium. That fight, widely regarded as one of the greatest heavyweight bouts of the decade, saw both men hit the canvas before Joshua scored an emphatic 11th-round stoppage. With over 90,000 fans in attendance and millions watching worldwide, Joshua had cemented his legacy as boxing’s new superstar.
Defining Victories and Painful Defeats
Success in boxing is never linear, and Joshua’s career illustrates that better than most. After dominating the heavyweight division, he faced an unexpected setback against Andy Ruiz Jr. in June 2019. The fight, held at Madison Square Garden, shocked the world when Ruiz, a last-minute replacement opponent stopped Joshua in the seventh round. It was the first loss of his career, and it sent shockwaves through the sport.
Yet Joshua’s response to that defeat showed his resilience. Six months later, he reclaimed his titles in a rematch held in Saudi Arabia, using a more disciplined, tactical style to outbox Ruiz over twelve rounds. The victory marked one of the most impressive comebacks in recent boxing history and proved that Joshua could adapt and learn under pressure.
However, new challenges awaited him. Between 2021 and 2022, Joshua faced the technically brilliant Oleksandr Usyk twice, losing both encounters by unanimous decision. Usyk’s speed and movement exposed some of Joshua’s vulnerabilities, particularly his difficulty handling agile, high-volume opponents. Those defeats cost him his unified titles and pushed him into a period of rebuilding.
In 2023, Joshua began his comeback campaign with a solid win against Jermaine Franklin, followed by a knockout victory over Robert Helenius at London’s O₂ Arena. The Helenius fight demonstrated flashes of his old power, a reminder that, even after setbacks, Joshua remained one of the most dangerous punchers in the sport.
The Recent Chapter Joshua vs. Dubois
The most recent Anthony Joshua fight, held on 21 September 2024 at Wembley Stadium, marked one of the most talked-about moments in his career. His opponent, Daniel Dubois, represented a new generation of British heavyweights eager to make their mark. Many expected Joshua’s experience and composure to carry him to victory, but the night unfolded differently.
From the opening bell, Dubois applied relentless pressure, landing powerful shots that forced Joshua onto the defensive. In the first round, Dubois connected with a sharp overhand right that sent Joshua to the canvas a shocking moment for fans who had come expecting a dominant AJ performance. Despite his efforts to regain control, Joshua struggled to handle Dubois’ aggression and timing. In the third and fourth rounds, he was dropped again as Dubois continued his assault.
The fight ended in the fifth round when Dubois landed a clean counter right hand, knocking Joshua out just under a minute into the round. The loss was decisive and painful. For Joshua, it wasn’t merely a defeat; it was a career crossroads.
Afterward, Joshua underwent elbow surgery to address lingering injuries that had affected his training and performance. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, acknowledged that the loss required reflection, suggesting that Joshua’s next steps must be calculated carefully. While some critics questioned whether Joshua’s best days were behind him, others argued that he still possesses the physical gifts and mental drive to mount another comeback.
The Dubois fight may have derailed Joshua’s immediate plans, but it also reignited the conversation about legacy, endurance, and the nature of boxing greatness.
Analyzing His Record and Legacy
As of 2025, Anthony Joshua’s professional record stands at 28 wins and 4 losses, with 25 wins coming by knockout. Such a record places him among the most successful heavyweights of his era. Beyond the numbers, what defines Joshua’s legacy is his ability to consistently fill stadiums, draw global audiences, and represent British boxing with integrity.
His victory over Klitschko remains one of the most iconic moments in modern boxing, a changing of the guard from one generation to the next. His ability to bounce back from defeats notably against Ruiz highlights a trait that few fighters possess: the humility to rebuild.
Joshua’s influence also extends outside the ring. With sponsorship deals, charitable work, and a professional demeanor that resonates with fans, he has become one of the most marketable athletes in sports. He represents a new kind of heavyweight one who combines physical dominance with business acumen and public grace.
What’s Next for Anthony Joshua?
After the Dubois defeat, speculation about the next Anthony Joshua fight has intensified. Reports suggest that Joshua is focused on recovery and returning to form by late 2025. Several names have emerged as potential opponents, each offering different risks and rewards.
A long-awaited showdown with Tyson Fury remains the most desirable matchup in British boxing. The “Battle of Britain” would not only draw enormous crowds but also answer lingering questions about who truly reigns supreme in the UK heavyweight scene. Negotiations have been on and off for years, but the prospect remains alive.
Another intriguing option is Martin Bakole, a powerful Congolese heavyweight. Rumors of a potential bout in Africa dubbed “Rumble in the Jungle II” have circulated, evoking memories of Ali vs. Foreman’s 1974 classic. Alternatively, a fight with Joseph Parker or even social media sensation Jake Paul has been floated, though the latter remains unlikely from a sporting standpoint.
Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has emphasized that the next fight will depend on Joshua’s health and mindset. After surgery and time off, a tune-up bout could help restore his confidence before facing elite opposition again. Hearn described it as “a rebuild, not a retirement,” suggesting that Joshua still has the hunger to compete at the highest level.
The Road Ahead: Rebuilding Mind and Body
For Joshua, the road ahead is as much psychological as physical. Boxing is a sport that tests character as much as skill. Rebounding from a knockout loss demands mental strength, self-belief, and the right training environment.
Joshua has hinted at adjusting his training methods and focusing on fundamentals. This includes working on head movement, shot selection, and stamina — areas that have been exploited in past defeats. He has also expressed interest in training in different locations to gain new perspectives, possibly splitting time between London and the United States.
Fans and pundits agree that if Joshua can rediscover his rhythm and confidence, he remains capable of challenging for world titles once again. His size, power, and experience still make him a formidable force in any matchup. However, the window of opportunity is narrowing, and every decision in the coming months will matter.
FAQs
When was Anthony Joshua’s last fight?
Anthony Joshua’s last fight took place on 21 September 2024 against Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium, where he lost by knockout in the fifth round.
What is Anthony Joshua’s professional record?
Joshua currently holds a record of 28 wins and 4 losses, with 25 victories coming by knockout.
Who could be Joshua’s next opponent?
Potential future opponents include Tyson Fury, Martin Bakole, and Joseph Parker. Discussions about a possible fight in late 2025 or early 2026 are ongoing.
Has Anthony Joshua retired?
No, Joshua has not retired. Despite recent setbacks, he remains committed to returning to the ring once he has fully recovered from his elbow surgery.
Conclusion
The story of Anthony Joshua is far from over. Every “Anthony Joshua fight” brings not only excitement but also a deeper narrative about perseverance and redemption. From Olympic gold to world titles, shocking losses, and triumphant comebacks, Joshua has lived through every phase a fighter can experience.
As fans await his next move, one truth remains: Anthony Joshua continues to embody the essence of boxing: courage, evolution, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Whether he climbs back to championship status or transitions into a mentor for the next generation, his impact on the sport is already indelible.
