British boxing sensation Anthony Joshua is on the verge of confirming a monumental return to the ring this autumn, with plans for a headline event at the iconic Wembley Stadium gaining serious momentum.
According to insider reports, the two-time heavyweight world champion is deep in negotiations for a September showdown. While an official announcement is pending, the buzz within the sport points towards a highly anticipated clash that has been years in the making.
A Stadium Spectacle in the Making
Promoter Eddie Hearn is spearheading the efforts to bring a major fight to the 90,000-seat national stadium. The target date is firmly set for a Saturday in September, aiming to replicate the electric atmosphere of Joshua's past legendary nights under the Wembley arch.
"We are working on a few different options, but the goal is clear: a huge fight for AJ in London this September," a source close to the discussions revealed. The financial backing from Saudi Arabian investors, which has dominated the heavyweight scene recently, is not expected to be a factor for this particular bout, putting the focus squarely on a classic UK stadium event.
Zhilei Zhang: The Front-Runner for the Challenge
All signs currently point to Chinese powerhouse Zhilei 'Big Bang' Zhang as the most likely opponent. This matchup carries significant narrative weight, as it would see Joshua face the man who brutally stopped his fellow countryman and former foe, Joe Joyce, not once but twice.
Zhang's devastating knockout power makes him a dangerous and compelling challenger. A victory for Joshua would be a clear statement of intent, potentially avenging Joyce's defeats and solidifying his position at the top of the division. The stylistic clash between Joshua's athletic prowess and Zhang's southpaw power-punching promises a thrilling encounter for fans.
What's Next for the Heavyweight Division?
This potential fight is a key piece in the complex puzzle of the heavyweight landscape. While a undisputed title fight between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk looms, Joshua's path is about maintaining momentum and positioning himself for the ultimate prize down the line.
A decisive win at Wembley would catapult Joshua right back into the conversation for a shot at the winner of the Fury-Usyk rivalry, setting the stage for an even bigger blockbuster in 2025.
