Prominent boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has revealed his “ideal world” scenario—where Tyson Fury comes out of retirement to face Anthony Joshua in a long-awaited heavyweight clash.
Joshua, who suffered a knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024, has been searching for his next big opponent. Meanwhile, Fury, after back-to-back losses to Oleksandr Usyk, announced a surprise retirement in January 2025. Despite the Gypsy King showing no signs of returning, Hearn remains optimistic.
“In an ideal world, Tyson Fury gets off the sofa and goes, ‘I’m bored. I wanna roll the dice with AJ.’ And that phone call would be the most beautiful phone call I’ve had in my career,” Hearn told The Sun.
However, with Fury not showing any inclination to step back into the ring, Hearn has been forced to explore other options for Joshua. A rematch with Dubois remains a possibility, but Dubois is prioritizing a second fight with Usyk.
Other potential contenders include Germany’s Agit Kabayel, WBC interim champion, and New Zealand’s Joseph Parker, the WBO interim titleholder. Hearn also mentioned long-time American rival Deontay Wilder as a possible opponent.
Joshua, however, has been dealing with an injury that has delayed his training. “It’s nothing major, but he just can’t punch properly right now,” Hearn explained. “He needs about six weeks before he’s fully ready.”
With Fury still retired and Dubois locked in negotiations with Usyk, Joshua’s next fight remains uncertain. However, Hearn insists that finding the right opponent is crucial for what he believes is the final chapter of Joshua’s career.
