Anthony Joshua has achieved remarkable success in boxing, but as he enters the later stages of his career, the two-time unified heavyweight champion might be preparing to retire. Promoter Eddie Hearn recently mentioned that 35-year-old Joshua could hang up his gloves by 2026, possibly making that year his final in the sport.
Since his loss to Daniel Dubois in the IBF heavyweight title bout last September, Joshua (28-4, 25 KOs) has stayed out of the ring. Hearn suggests that Joshua’s most significant challenge would be securing a fight with former unified heavyweight champion Tyson Fury. “You never know for sure, but realistically, it’s about three more fights,” Hearn explained. “I advised AJ on this, and they said, ‘We’ve already had two Tyson Fury fights this year, what more is needed?’”
Hearn added that Joshua had the chance to fight Dubois but felt Joshua had already faced the toughest challenge by battling Tyson Fury. Hearn believes Joshua could end his impressive career with a memorable win, although Joshua’s involvement in potential rematches, such as Dubois versus Oleksandr Usyk, depends on his form.
“For me, something feels right about Joshua defeating Fury twice before retiring,” Hearn said. Despite past negotiations for superfights between the two British heavyweights falling through due to unexpected losses or financial disagreements, with both fighters now in the twilight of their careers, a showdown seems increasingly possible.
Fan Take: This potential final chapter for Anthony Joshua is significant for fight fans because it could deliver one of boxing’s most anticipated matchups against Tyson Fury, providing a fitting climax to the careers of two of the sport’s biggest stars. It also signals a turning point in heavyweight boxing, where new rivalries and champions may soon emerge.
