Anthony Joshua’s inactivity in 2025 has been a controversial topic in recent months. If the former world champion does not fight before the end of the year, it would mark the first time in his 12-year professional career that he has gone a full cycle out of the ring, a surprising fact after his defeat to Daniel Dubois. Although rumors of an expected fight against Tyson Fury continue to circulate, the lack of an official announcement had generated much speculation.
The boxer has been part of several rumors that have circulated recently about possible fights, however, none of them have materialized and it was said that one of the main reasons was that he had to undergo surgery, but no official announcement was ever made.
In the face of doubts, it was Eddie Hearn who gave some clues about Joshua’s future and the real options of seeing him fight again in 2025.
Eddie Hearn drops hints for Anthony Joshua’s return
Promoter Eddie Hearn has broken his silence, offering some clarity to fans. During an interview on DAZN’s broadcast with Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix, Hearn was asked about the three remaining dates on Matchroom’s calendar for 2025: the rematch between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn (November 15), Diego Pacheco vs. Kevin Lele Sadjo (December 13) and Naoya Inoue vs. Alan David Picasso (December 27).
When asked if Joshua would fight on one of those dates, Hearn simply replied “Yes”, so that simple answer was enough to excite fans who want to see him back in the ring.
Although Hearn confirmed the intention for Joshua to return before the end of the year, the identity of the opponent remains a total mystery. With Fury busy filming the second season of his Netflix reality show, the list of elite rivals has shortened. This void of options makes it difficult for Joshua to return, especially after a significant defeat.
Frank Smith, CEO of Matchroom, discusses Joshua’s future
Another character from the boxing world, such as Frank Smith, CEO of Matchroom, also commented a few weeks ago on the future of the boxer and explained that he needed a break.
I think he needed it. He hasn’t stopped for 12, 13 years since he turned professional
“I think with AJ, he’s had time out of the ring, the longest period he’s been out of the ring. I think he needed it. He hasn’t stopped for 12, 13 years since he turned professional,” Smith commented.
“For him, I think it’s been perfect just to have some time away to focus on himself while he comes back for what is probably the most important part of his career so far and the most important decision he will make,” added the Matchroom CEO, who hopes Joshua will return as soon as possible.
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