Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn is actively planning a potential mega-fight between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, despite Joshua’s recent setback—a devastating fifth-round knockout loss to Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium. In a candid interview with DAZN, Hearn outlined two compelling pathways for Joshua’s next move: a rematch with Dubois or the long-anticipated clash with Fury.
Crucial Next Steps for Joshua
Hearn emphasized that the next fight is critical for Joshua, stating, “I think the next move is probably the most important of his career so far.” According to Hearn, they hold a contractual option for a rematch with Dubois, and preliminary discussions suggest that Turki Alalshikh, who promoted the Dubois fight, is keen on an immediate return bout.
However, Hearn also highlighted the allure of a Fury fight, asserting, “For me, we have to fight Tyson Fury before it’s done.” He believes that even if Fury were to lose against Oleksandr Usyk, a Joshua-Fury showdown should still occur, recommending that both fighters could have two bouts in 2025 before hanging up their gloves for good.
Joshua’s Drawing Power Remains Strong
Despite the recent loss, Joshua continues to be one of boxing’s biggest draws. Reports indicate he earned a guaranteed £6 million for the Dubois fight, with the potential to rake in up to £25 million depending on pay-per-view sales. This financial prowess reinforces his status in the sport, as evidenced by the record-breaking attendance of over 98,128 fans for the Dubois fight—an impressive feat for British boxing.
A Positive Mindset Moving Forward
In the wake of his defeat, Joshua has vowed to press on with his career, rejecting calls for retirement. In a motivational video shared on his Instagram account, he reflected, “We came up short, but we have got to look at all the positives, and that’s the mindset that we have to have—a positive one, always.”
Hearn believes Joshua still has a future in the ring, estimating he has “between one and three fights” left in his career. “He doesn’t want to leave the sport. He loves it!” Hearn added, ensuring that they will work together to determine the right time for Joshua to retire.
Looking Ahead: The Clash of Titans
The prospect of a fight against Tyson Fury looms large, captivating fans and analysts alike. A matchup between these two British heavyweights would not only be a significant event in boxing history but also a chance for Joshua to reclaim his status among the elite in the sport. Hearn’s vision for Joshua’s future is clear: whether it’s a rematch with Dubois or a blockbuster clash with Fury, the next steps will be pivotal in defining Joshua’s legacy.
As the boxing world watches closely, one thing remains certain: Anthony Joshua’s journey is far from over, and the path he chooses next could shape the landscape of heavyweight boxing for years to come.
