Anthony Joshua potential comeback rival signed by Frank Warren as fight possibility grows
Tony Yoka has signed with Frank Warren – opening the door to a showdown with Anthony Joshua.
As first discussed by talkSPORT, rumours are gathering pace that 2016 Olympic gold medallist Yoka is in contention for British heavyweight star Joshua’s comeback fight.
Joshua hasn’t fought since losing to Daniel Dubois last September, but is planning to return before the end of the year after recovering from elbow surgery.
Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh suggested he would like to see Joshua in a tune-up fight before any big clash with the likes of Tyson Fury.
And Yoka could be perfect for that, particularly now he has signed with British promoter Warren.
The deal was announced and Yoka is now in a talented pool of heavyweights already held by the stable.
It includes the likes of Tyson Fury, Moses Itauma, Fabio Wardley, Daniel Dubois and long-term rival Joe Joyce.
But of course he will now be under the same roof as Joshua, given Queensberry now work in close partnership with Matchroom Boxing under the DAZN banner.
Any deal will likely be far easier to make given the pair’s working relationship.
Joshua would be a huge favourite to beat Yoka, who has failed to reach his potential rival’s heights in the paid ranks.
What are the chances we see Anthony Joshua vs Tony Yoka?
Yoka has been beaten by his highest level opponents including Martin Bakole, Carlos Takam and Ryad Merhy.
The Frenchman has also been linked with a sequel against Joyce, whom many believe he robbed of a gold medal at the 2016 Olympics after a controversial win.
But former boxing star Spencer Oliver believes a bout with Joshua could well be next.
He said: “I’ve heard that rumour and I’m glad you have brought that up because I think we are going to be the first people to talk about this.
“Do I think they are going to fight? I think that it is a great possibility.
“We get two Olympic gold medallists going at it. Tony Yoka is trying to rekindle his career after losing to the likes of Carlos Takam.
“He has won his three now; he last boxed in June. He is very much in the rebuilding process, as is Anthony Joshua.
“Doesn’t it make sense? Two Olympic gold medallists, there is history there.
“It will be a great fight, it is a sellable fight, I would love to see it.”
Joshua is now 35-years-old but has eyes on a return to the pinnacle of the division.
It is unclear what exactly is next but a training return is imminent.
