Former heavyweight champion of the world Anthony Joshua could possibly be getting into his remaining 12 months within the sport, in accordance with his promoter Eddie Hearn.
In an interview with The Occasions, the Matchroom Sport chief has hinted at what the long run may seem like for the 35-year-old. Joshua was crushed by Daniel Dubois earlier this 12 months, a dangerous defeat for the two-time heavyweight champion of the world who had been eyeing a 3rd stint on the high of the division..
Hearn had beforehand said that Joshua would contemplate activating the rematch clause within the deal, with a rematch mooted for February 2025. Nevertheless, Joshua has sustained a couple of niggling accidents, casting doubt over the rematch, seemingly pushing the struggle again to later within the 12 months.
Brentwood-born promoter Hearn has been by Joshua’s facet all through his profession, having additionally labored with the likes of Canelo Álvarez, Gennady Golovkin, Vasyl Lomachenko and Katie Taylor, all of whom have gone on to be world champions. Joshua was compelled to disclaim retirement calls after his defeat to Dubois, insisting he nonetheless had extra to present within the sport.
Talking after Katie Taylor’s current win over Amada Serrano, with retirement looming for the Irish fighter, Hearn additionally mentioned, “this could possibly be [Joshua’s] final 12 months within the sport.” The final consensus is that AJ, who has amassed an estimated £175m from his boxing profession, will face Tyson Fury in his remaining struggle earlier than hanging up his gloves.
Joshua is alleged to chomping on the bit to rearrange a rematch with Dubois, which is able to seemingly happen in Could or June, in accordance with Hearn. Chatting with The Solar earlier this month, Hearn mentioned: “He wished to struggle on February 22 however sadly we form of needed to overrule him on this and say no as a result of we are able to’t afford to not get this proper.
“In case you get crushed once more by Daniel Dubois it’s important to significantly contemplate your future. We obtained one final chapter on this profession that we want to ensure we get 100 per cent spot on.
“So when he comes again in Could or June or each time that’s gonna be you bought to be bodily mentally 100 per cent prepared. He needs to rematch Daniel so unhealthy.”
