Anthony Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has provided an update on the former two-time heavyweight champion’s comeback.
According to the Matchroom chief, Joshua will not fight in 2025 and could make his comeback in early 2026
Speaking to Sky Sports, the Matchroom Sport chairman revealed Joshua is likely to return in January or early February 2026, stressing there is no need to rush his recovery.
“He’s back training and that’s a great sign. A lot of the sites are talking about January or very early February. I wouldn’t say he’s in any rush,” Hearn said.
Joshua, who has been sidelined since his knockout defeat to Daniel Dubois in 2024, will be eased back into competition after more than a year out.
“We need a top-15 guy. It’s not going to be Fury, Usyk, Dubois — those top guys. We need someone so that AJ can come back in a competitive fight,” Hearn explained.
Looking ahead, Hearn admitted his long-term goal remains to finally deliver the much-anticipated all-British clash with Tyson Fury.
“In an ideal scenario, the fight with Fury has to happen in 2026. That’s the big focus.”
Joshua has returned to training after injury setbacks delayed his comeback and is expected to step up preparations in the coming months as he targets another shot at heavyweight glory.
