Anthony Joshua’s next fight has become one of the most talked-about topics in the boxing world. As a former two-time heavyweight champion, Joshua continues to attract massive global attention whenever he steps into the ring. With fans eager to know who he will face next, rumors and official discussions are already generating buzz. In this article, we break down everything we know about Anthony Joshua’s next fight, potential opponents, and what it means for his career.
The Current Status of Anthony Joshua’s Next Fight
Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s long-time promoter, recently confirmed that discussions are underway regarding Joshua’s next opponent. While no official announcement has been made yet, reports suggest that talks are progressing positively. According to BBC Sport, Joshua’s team is exploring several high-profile matchups that could define the next stage of his career.
Joshua last fought in early 2024, where he delivered a dominant performance that reignited excitement among fans and pundits. His powerful combinations, sharp footwork, and strategic patience reminded viewers why he remains one of the biggest draws in the heavyweight division. His next fight will be crucial in determining whether he remains on course for another world title shot, and many in the boxing community believe that a win over a top-ranked opponent could set him up for a massive payday and career-defining bout.
Potential Opponents for Anthony Joshua
There has been endless speculation over who Anthony Joshua’s next opponent will be, and each rumored matchup carries its own intrigue. Deontay Wilder remains one of the most talked-about names on the list. The American knockout artist, known for his devastating right hand, has been linked to Joshua for years. A fight between the two would not only settle a long-standing debate about who is the harder puncher but would also bring together two of the biggest heavyweight stars of their generation. Negotiations for this bout have collapsed multiple times in the past due to financial disagreements, but fans continue to hope that 2025 may finally be the year the dream fight materializes.
Tyson Fury is another potential opponent, and an all-British showdown between Fury and Joshua would be a historic event for UK boxing. The bout would undoubtedly sell out stadiums and generate record-breaking pay-per-view numbers worldwide. Fury’s elusive style, defensive brilliance, and mental warfare outside the ring contrast perfectly with Joshua’s calculated aggression and professionalism. A fight of this magnitude would not only be about titles but also about national pride and legacy.
Zhilei Zhang, the rising Chinese heavyweight, has also emerged as a serious contender. Zhang’s size, power, and recent performances have made him an attractive option, especially considering the potential to tap into the massive Chinese market. A Joshua vs. Zhang bout would expand boxing’s global reach and bring fresh attention to the sport in Asia. For Joshua, it would also represent an opportunity to test himself against a physically imposing fighter who has been steadily climbing the ranks.
Meanwhile, domestic rivals like Joe Joyce and Daniel Dubois cannot be overlooked. Joyce, known for his durability and relentless pressure, could give Joshua a stern test, while Dubois represents the next generation of British heavyweights. Either matchup would appeal strongly to UK audiences and allow Joshua to continue building momentum on home soil.
What This Fight Means for Joshua’s Career
Anthony Joshua’s legacy is already secure as one of the biggest names in modern boxing. He has fought in sold-out stadiums, headlined global pay-per-view events, and captured world titles twice in his career. However, his next fight carries additional weight. A victory against an elite opponent would not only silence critics who questioned his resilience after past defeats but also establish him once again as a dominant force in the division. Fans are eager to see whether Joshua can reclaim his position at the very top.
A win against a top-tier rival such as Deontay Wilder or Tyson Fury would cement Joshua’s claim for another world title shot. It would also elevate his profile in the United States, where boxing remains heavily influenced by pay-per-view appeal. Conversely, a loss at this stage could significantly impact his marketability and force him to reconsider his career trajectory. While Joshua remains a pay-per-view star, defeats against high-level opposition could limit his ability to command blockbuster fights in the future.
Financially, Joshua’s next fight is set to be a massive event. Even if he does not face Fury or Wilder, his drawing power ensures that arenas will sell out and millions of fans will tune in. This commercial appeal gives him leverage in negotiations, making his fights not just athletic contests but also major business ventures.
Key Factors Influencing the Fight Announcement
Several key factors could determine when and where Anthony Joshua’s next fight will happen. One of the most important considerations is the venue. Major stadiums in the UK, including Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, are potential options for hosting a mega-event.
However, Saudi Arabia has emerged as a leading bidder for high-profile boxing matches, offering massive financial packages to attract fighters. The United States, particularly Las Vegas and New York, also remain viable locations due to their long history of staging world-class boxing events.
Broadcasting rights are another critical factor. Both DAZN and Sky Sports are expected to be in contention for broadcasting Joshua’s next fight, and whichever network secures the rights will heavily influence how the event is marketed and distributed worldwide. The choice of broadcaster could also impact ticket sales, pay-per-view pricing, and even international coverage.
Negotiations with the opponent’s camp often present the biggest challenge in finalizing such high-profile fights. Disputes over purse splits, rematch clauses, and location preferences have delayed major bouts in the past. For Joshua, securing the right opponent on terms that satisfy both sides will be crucial if his next fight is to deliver on its massive potential.
FAQs
When is Anthony Joshua’s next fight?
An exact date has not yet been confirmed, but official announcements are expected in the coming months. Based on current reports, fans may see Joshua back in the ring by mid to late 2025, depending on how quickly negotiations conclude.
Who is Anthony Joshua most likely to fight next?
While no opponent has been finalized, names like Deontay Wilder, Tyson Fury, Zhilei Zhang, and Joe Joyce remain at the forefront of discussions. Joshua’s choice of opponent will depend largely on commercial appeal and contractual negotiations.
Where will Anthony Joshua’s next fight take place?
The most likely locations include the UK, Saudi Arabia, and the United States. Each option offers unique advantages: the UK guarantees massive home support, Saudi Arabia brings financial incentives, and the US provides global prestige and exposure.
How can fans watch Anthony Joshua’s next fight?
Broadcast details will be announced closer to the fight date. DAZN and Sky Sports are currently considered frontrunners to secure distribution rights, with potential for additional global partners.
Is Anthony Joshua still in contention for a world title?
Yes, Joshua remains highly ranked among heavyweight contenders. A strong victory in his next fight could place him directly in line for another world championship opportunity.
Conclusion
Anthony Joshua’s next fight is more than just another entry in his career, it could be a defining moment that shapes his legacy. Whether it’s a blockbuster clash with Deontay Wilder, a historic showdown with Tyson Fury, or a battle against an emerging heavyweight like Zhilei Zhang, the outcome will resonate throughout the boxing world. Fans can expect excitement, drama, and world-class competition when Joshua finally steps back into the ring.
