Anthony Joshua’s return to the ring seems to be edging ever closer.
The two-time unified world champion was last out in December of 2025, stopping YouTuber-turned-fighter Jake Paul inside six rounds in Miami, Florida.
Joshua’s team had made it clear that he would get back to the more traditional side of the sport thereafter, however tragedy struck in Lagos, Nigeria when he was involved in a car crash. Joshua survived with minor injuries but two of his closest friends, Sina Ghami and Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele, sadly died.
It was unclear how long the British heavyweight’s physical and mental recovery would take, and there were even questions raised about retirement.
He has since resumed training, back in camp with the team of former rival Oleksandr Usyk. The Ukrainian has recently stated he believes ‘AJ’ can become undisputed champion by 2027.
Promoter Eddie Hearn has said that talks have begun surrounding his charge’s return, and now an update from boxing powerbroker Turki Alalshikh has provided more clarity. Discussing his general plan for the rest of this year, the owner of Ring Magazine included this about Joshua:
“We are … planning to do two fights for Joshua.”
😂😂😂
Yes, I am very busy with other stuff. Thank God my country is safe and we are happy, even when we are close to war. Thank you for asking. Missile and drones coming to my country each day.And to prove your point that I am too busy and not interested in boxing anymore,… https://t.co/GR894zig21
— TURKI ALALSHIKH (@Turki_alalshikh) April 1, 2026
Another notable mention is Tyson Fury, who headlines a Ring card this month against Arslanbek Makhmudov. The long-awaited all-British clash between Fury and Joshua appears to be the target for the second fight for both men – at least that was the plan prior to the car accident.
Talk will now turn to when, where and who Joshua faces in the summer. A rematch with Dillian Whyte has not been ruled out, though Hearn recently said no discussions had taken place despite rumours.
