Anthony Joshua has hinted at a potential switch to mixed martial arts (MMA) before he hangs up his gloves. The former two-time heavyweight champion, who faces Kristian Prenga in Jeddah on July 25, discussed the possibility on the Mr Verzace podcast.
Joshua, 36, said he has considered crossing over into MMA or kickboxing, noting that fighters from those disciplines have frequently entered the boxing ring. 'Believe me, I was thinking, why don’t I step over into one of their territories because they keep on coming to our territory?' he said.
The British boxer acknowledged the challenge, stating that MMA and kickboxing fighters are experienced professionals. He added that a crossover would be a 'big business' opportunity and expressed interest in facing a named opponent in any discipline.
Joshua referenced past crossovers, including his own second-round knockout of former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in 2023. He also noted that Holly Holm and James Toney had moved from boxing to the UFC, with Holm winning the women’s title but Toney being submitted in the first round.
Despite the allure, Joshua believes boxing remains the pinnacle of combat sports. 'So even if Anthony Joshua was to cross over into MMA, it wouldn’t be as big as them coming over into boxing,' he said.
The heavyweight is expected to face Tyson Fury later this year after both fighters agreed to a deal in April. Joshua turns 37 in October, adding urgency to his career decisions.
