Anthony Joshua's immediate future in the ring is now clear, with promoter Eddie Hearn outlining a path that could finally lead to a long-awaited British super-fight against Tyson Fury.
Miami Millions Before Fury Focus
The eyes of the sporting world will be on Miami's Kaseya Centre this weekend, where Anthony Joshua returns to action against the controversial American, Jake Paul. The bout, streamed exclusively on Netflix, is a professional contest with the fighters reportedly splitting a colossal purse of around £140 million.
This marks Joshua's first fight since a demoralising fifth-round knockout loss to fellow Brit Daniel Dubois at Wembley in September 2024. Many view the Paul clash as a lucrative warm-up for AJ's return to the elite heavyweight scene.
Hearn Confirms February Return and Fury Plans
Attention, however, is already shifting to what comes next. Hearn has confirmed that the plan is for the 36-year-old Joshua to fight again in February next year. Following that, the ultimate goal is a historic showdown with the 'Gypsy King', Tyson Fury.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Hearn revealed the pivotal role of Saudi Arabia's Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, Turki Al-Sheikh. "We will fight Tyson Fury if Turki Al-Sheikh delivers on his plans and strategies," Hearn stated. "He has told us, 'I am going to make AJ v Tyson Fury. This is your deal. Do you accept?' We have accepted."
Hearn was clear that the final deal with Fury is not yet made, but expressed confidence in Al-Sheikh's ability to deliver, saying: "All I know is he's yet to fail in delivering a fight."
Riyadh Season Blockbuster in the Works
According to the Press Association, there is growing confidence that the long-anticipated clash between the two British heavyweights will finally happen in 2026. The fight is expected to be a centrepiece of the Riyadh Season in the Saudi capital.
Joshua, a two-time world champion and Olympic gold medallist, boasts 25 professional knockout wins among his 28 victories. His four defeats include two to the current undisputed champion, Oleksandr Usyk. Fury has also suffered two defeats to the Ukrainian master boxer.
The potential Joshua-Fury bout represents the most lucrative and significant all-British heavyweight fight in history, a contest fans have demanded for the best part of a decade.
