Anthony Joshua is entering the final year of his boxing career, with plans for one to three more fights before retiring, promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Hearn revealed that Joshua is carefully planning his farewell bouts, with high-profile opponents such as Daniel Dubois, Tyson Fury, and Joseph Parker under consideration.
“This is the final year. Let’s not beat around the bush,” Hearn said. “He’s going to have somewhere between – it could always be your last fight – but one and three fights, that’s the reality of the situation.”
The two-time world heavyweight champion is currently recovering from a minor injury sustained after his knockout loss to Dubois in September. Hearn noted that while Joshua has returned to training, he is not yet ready to resume full-intensity sparring.
“He had a niggle after the Dubois fight, he went back into camp, and he’s just not ready to start punching yet with the same ferocity that he needs to,” Hearn said.
Among the possible matchups, a rematch with Joseph Parker is gaining attention. The two previously fought in 2018, with Joshua securing a unanimous decision win in Cardiff. However, Parker has since re-established himself as a top contender with victories over Martin Bakole, Zhilei Zhang, and Deontay Wilder.
Parker’s promoter, David Higgins, expressed interest in a rematch, telling Sky Sports, “I think the whole world would like to see him rematch with AJ. On current form, I think Joseph Parker puts AJ to sleep.”
Hearn also pointed to a rematch with Dubois or a fight against Tyson Fury as possible final showdowns for Joshua. However, Fury’s current retirement status makes that bout uncertain. His promoter, Frank Warren, remained cautious, saying, “If he wanted to come back, that would be his choice. Me, I wouldn’t even discuss it with him.”
Reflecting on Joshua’s career, Hearn praised his lasting impact on British boxing.
“He’s changed the face of the sport in this country,” he said. “He’s paved the way for stadium fights to become a norm and inspired a new generation of young boxers.”
Joshua is expected to return to the ring in late summer, with fans eagerly awaiting the announcement of his next opponent as he prepares for the final chapter of his career.
