Promoter Eddie Hearn has revealed that a crucial decision regarding Anthony Joshua's next fight will be made this week, with the possibility of a low-key bout before the year's end.
Imminent Decision on Joshua's Comeback
The Matchroom boss confirmed that Joshua, the former two-time world heavyweight champion, could return to the ring in a low-profile outing designed purely to regain his fighting rhythm. Joshua has not fought since his stoppage loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024, and while a blockbuster clash with Tyson Fury remains a long-term target, Hearn insists a 'tune-up' fight is the most probable next step.
"We will make a decision this week on Anthony's next fight," Hearn told a group of publications, including The Independent, on Tuesday. He suggested that if Joshua does fight in 2025, it might be an under-the-radar event. "You probably won't even hear about it, unless it's Jake Paul," Hearn added, referencing the social media star turned boxer.
A 'Run-Out' Fight to Regain Groove
Hearn elaborated on the rationale behind this approach, explaining that the immense pressure of headlining stadium events has taken its toll. The proposed fight would be stripped of the usual media frenzy. "We would literally rock up on fight week," Hearn said. "The whole point is to not have to do [media] – just chill out, turn up on the Wednesday or Thursday, weigh in, wrap your hands, and go and fight."
He emphasised that this is not financially motivated but is instead about helping the 36-year-old Joshua rediscover his hunger and comfort in the ring. "Every time he fights, he has to go to a stadium, fight in front of 60,000 people in a tough fight. So, it's almost like: 'Just give me one to get back...' I admire the fact that he wants to do that."
The Jake Paul Wildcard and Broadcast Hurdles
The promoter did not dismiss the possibility of a high-profile 'tune-up' against Jake Paul, who was previously angling for a fight with Joshua this summer. "If we was to have a run-out, a run-out against Jake Paul would be quite pleasant!" Hearn remarked. "I'm not sure he's that mad – he might be – but nothing major to report at this stage."
However, a significant barrier exists. Joshua is contracted to broadcaster DAZN, while Paul's recently cancelled bout with Gervonta Davis was scheduled for Netflix. Hearn admitted, "Yeah, that would be another issue to overcome," but suggested that if Paul was truly keen, "there's probably ways to make it happen."
In other developments, Hearn confirmed that Joshua has yet to settle on a head coach for his next camp. The boxer recently visited Oleksandr Usyk's training facility, but Hearn described this as a "fact-finding mission" rather than a commitment to a new long-term trainer.
