Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has unveiled seven potential opponents for Anthony Joshua following Tyson Fury’s announcement of his retirement from the sport. With the prospect of a £500 million superfight between Joshua and Fury now in jeopardy, Joshua may have to shift his focus to other high-profile matchups.
Fury, who has previously hinted at retirement, took to social media to confirm he is stepping away from the ring, leaving fans and promoters scrambling to reassess the heavyweight landscape. Hearn named Martin Bakole, Dillian Whyte, Deontay Wilder, Zhilei Zhang, Agit Kabayel, Daniel Dubois, and Joseph Parker as viable alternatives for Joshua’s next bout.
Daniel Dubois and Joseph Parker are set to clash on February 22 for the IBF heavyweight title. The winner could become a prime target for Joshua, offering him a chance to reclaim championship gold after his losses to Oleksandr Usyk.
Zhilei Zhang and Agit Kabayel will battle for the WBC interim title next month. This bout could pave the way for Joshua to challenge for the prestigious belt if current champion Oleksandr Usyk vacates.
The potential clash between Joshua and Deontay Wilder has been a dream fight for boxing fans. Despite setbacks in Wilder’s career, including recent losses, a comeback victory could reignite talks for this high-stakes showdown.
Joshua and Dillian Whyte share a storied rivalry, with each holding a victory over the other in their amateur and professional careers. Their anticipated rematch in 2023 fell through due to Whyte’s failed drug test, but the prospect remains enticing.
Martin Bakole, a former sparring partner of Joshua, has established himself as a formidable contender. With only one loss in 22 fights, Bakole’s recent victory over Jared Anderson has positioned him as a serious heavyweight threat.
The uncertainty surrounding Fury’s retirement leaves Joshua’s next move wide open. While fans may lament the lost opportunity for a British superfight, Hearn’s list of contenders promises exciting alternatives for Joshua’s journey back to the top of the heavyweight division.
Boxing enthusiasts now await official announcements to see who will stand opposite Joshua in the ring next. One thing is clear: the heavyweight division remains as dynamic and unpredictable as ever.
