Eddie Hearn has opened up about Anthony Joshua’s future in boxing, suggesting the former champion is likely to return to the ring despite the tragedy he suffered last year in Nigeria. However, the long-anticipated showdown with Tyson Fury may never happen. Joshua has not fought since knocking out Jake Paul in September.
Tragedy in Nigeria Delays Plans
After his victory over Paul, a fight with Fury was expected to follow, with a warm-up bout against kickboxing star Rico Verhoeven reportedly on the cards. Those plans were derailed when Joshua, 36, was involved in a fatal car crash in Nigeria that claimed the lives of his close friends Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami. Joshua survived with minor injuries and has pledged to honour his late friends, but a timeline for his return remains unclear.
Hearn Hopes Joshua Will Fight Again
Speaking to First Round TV, promoter Eddie Hearn admitted he expects Joshua to step back into the ring, though he cannot confirm when. “I don’t think there is any guarantees he fights again,” Hearn said. “But at the same time, I expect him to because it is something that he loves. And it is something he can carry those guys with him through as well, and it is something he wants to do.”
Recovery and Training Challenges
Hearn also highlighted the physical and emotional toll the crash has taken on Joshua. “From a boxing sense, physically it wasn’t easy what he went through either. People probably don’t realise the extent of that. He has been training, but he is not ready yet and won’t be for a while to return to full boxing training.” For now, fans must wait patiently as Joshua recovers and decides the next step in his career.
