Eddie Hearn Says Anthony Joshua Will Return in 2025
By Eddie Sanchez
There’s less than two months left in 2025, but Anthony Joshua is expected to return to the ring before the year comes to a close, according to promoter Eddie Hearn.
Joshua hasn’t fought since September 21, 2024, when he suffered a devastating loss to then-IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois. Since that defeat, “AJ” has been rumored to face opponents including Tyson Fury, Martin Bakole, and even Jake Paul. Yet the former two-time unified world champion has not signed a contract for any fight, leaving boxing fans to wonder when he would step back into the ring.
With time running out to arrange a bout this year, it seemed likely that Joshua’s return would have to wait until 2026. However, on Saturday night, the Matchroom boss appeared to confirm that the 36-year-old will fight before New Year’s Day.
Speaking to Chris Mannix in Orlando during the Lenier Pero vs. Jordan Thompson broadcast on DAZN, Hearn gave a short but telling answer when asked about Joshua’s next fight.
“You’ve got about three dates left in 2025 by my count: November 15 for Eubank vs. Benn 2 in London, December 13 for Pacheco vs. Sadjo in California, and December 27 for Inoue vs. Picasso in Riyadh,” Mannix said. “Will we see Anthony Joshua on any of those shows?”
After a brief pause, Hearn simply replied, “Yes.”
Joshua has not fought on an undercard in many years, but Hearn has previously floated the idea that the 2012 Olympic gold medalist could do so upon his return. No further details were provided regarding the timing or official announcement of Joshua’s next fight.
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