In the world of heavyweight boxing, timing is crucial. Recently, promoter Eddie Hearn has suggested that his star fighter, Anthony Joshua, should hold off on any immediate fights until he can assess the results of the rematch between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk, scheduled for December 21. This recommendation underscores a broader strategy in which Joshua’s next steps should be plotted with precision, considering the broader implications of the heavyweight landscape.
Following a shocking defeat to Daniel Dubois, Joshua’s immediate instinct might be to redeem himself in the ring. However, Hearn believes that the potential for a blockbuster fight against Fury outweighs the utility of a rematch against Dubois. With Turki Alalshikh publicly championing the desire for a Joshua-Fury showdown, both fighters are entering an increasingly media-driven contest for public interest and financial backing.
Both Joshua and Fury faced significant scrutiny after their last outings, bringing their legacies into question. Joshua’s humiliation at the hands of Dubois, a fighter he was expected to dispatch, raises doubts about his preparedness for a titanic clash against Fury. Likewise, Fury’s lackluster performance against Usyk in their previous encounter left fans wondering whether the so-called “Gypsy King” still had the mettle to reclaim his championship status.
Eddie Hearn’s caution highlights the inherent risk involved in having Joshua fight while both he and Fury grapple with their recent performances. The specter of consecutive losses hangs heavily over Joshua, who is already in the twilight of his prime. Engaging in a risky fight against Dubois could lead to further embarrassment and lower Joshua’s marketability moving forward.
Hearn’s argument is compelling: the prospect of a Joshua-Fury fight has the potential to inject vibrancy into a heavyweight division that has seen its share of ups and downs. Should Fury emerge victorious against Usyk, he would walk into the ring against Joshua as the holder of multiple belts—a scenario that would undoubtedly elevate the stakes. Not only would this increase their individual profiles, but it would also create a historic occasion for boxing enthusiasts, potentially leading to an undisputed heavyweight champion in the latter half of 2025.
Even if Fury suffers defeat to Usyk, the fight with Joshua could still be a box-office hit, but its marketing would require finesse. A carefully curated undercard and a robust promotional strategy would need to be in place to stimulate interest among fans, especially in lucrative markets like the U.S.
The Road Ahead: Risk and Reward
Ultimately, the heavyweight scene is fraught with unpredictability, and Hearn’s suggestion for Joshua to bide his time reflects an understanding of this volatility. With both boxers facing formidable competitors and their respective reputations on the line, the narrative surrounding the heavyweight division is as captivating as it is uncertain. Amateur opinions on the fights often shift as quickly as the outcomes themselves, but one thing remains clear: fans are eager for clarity, and the upcoming weeks will shape the future of heavyweight boxing significantly.
The landscape may be rocky, but Hearn’s calculations could yield a fight opportunity that excites the boxing world and rekindles the passion for heavyweight bouts that have long drawn in crowds. The eyes of boxing enthusiasts are set firmly on December 21.