Former two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua finds himself at a crossroads following a brutal knockout defeat to Daniel Dubois in September. The boxing community anticipated a quick rematch as Joshua reportedly felt a strong desire for revenge. However, this desire has been complicated by lingering injuries and strategic career considerations. Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter, floated the idea of a rematch in February, but now it appears fans will have to wait until at least mid-2025 for Joshua’s return to the ring.
The desire for an immediate rematch against Dubois, the current IBF heavyweight champion, was a natural reaction to the defeat, which not only impacted Joshua’s career but also initiated conversations about his longevity in the sport. The notion of jumping straight back into the ring undermines a crucial aspect of boxing—calculating the right moment to return, especially after a severe loss.
As Joshua steps away from immediate action, the heavyweight division continues to heat up. The high-stakes fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury scheduled for December will undoubtedly shape Joshua’s future. Hearn suggests that regardless of the outcome of this bout, the public still remains eager for a Joshua-Fury clash, yet the implications of such a match are daunting. If Joshua were to square off against Fury post-Usyk, the specter of losing yet again looms large.
Moreover, the potential for a rematch with Dubois brings its own set of challenges. A second defeat could severely affect Joshua’s standing in the sport and tarnish his legacy as a two-time champion. The boxing world is rife with legends who have faced similar crossroads, and the choices that Joshua makes now could define the latter part of his career.
At 35, Joshua’s fighting years are dwindling, and the anticipation surrounding his return to the ring—potentially in June—only adds pressure. The extended layoff raises questions about his ability to regain peak performance. While some believe he can come back stronger, others speculate that his career may be at a tipping point; every fight is critical for both his legacy and his self-concept as a fighter.
Hearn’s insistence that Joshua will only fight either Fury or Dubois adds another layer to this anticipation. The narrow focus on just two fighters amplifies the pressure mounts on Joshua, especially if he falters again. The boxing community is left wondering: does Joshua still have the capability to overcome these formidable opponents, or is this a reflection of a past glory that may not translate to future successes?
As the boxing world waits with bated breath for Joshua’s next move, many fans and analysts are left pondering the existential questions of his legacy. Will he rise from the ashes of recent defeats to reclaim his spot in the heavyweight elite, or will he fade into obscurity? The decisions made in the coming months will have profound implications, not only for his career but also for how history will remember Anthony Joshua. Fans and critics alike will be watching closely, as every moment counts in the uncertain saga of a once-towering figure in boxing.