Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn insists Anthony Joshua is open to a fight offer from Joseph Parker but is focused on pursuing other high-profile bouts with Daniel Dubois and Tyson Fury.
Anthony Joshua has been out of action since September 2024 after suffering a knockout defeat to Dubois and has yet to confirm his next fight.
Dubois and Fury top Anthony Joshua’s fight list
The former two-time heavyweight champion initially wanted a long-awaited showdown with Fury, but the ‘Gypsy King’ has since announced his retirement. Joshua is also keen on an immediate rematch with Dubois, though ‘Dynamite’ is currently in negotiations for a rematch with Oleksandr Usyk.
Frank Warren recently urged Joshua to step back into the ring with Parker, seven years after their 2018 fight, which Joshua won. However, Matchroom Boxing boss Hearn suggests that Parker is not at the top of Joshua’s list.
Hearn added that Parker, who is on a strong winning streak, should be facing Dubois instead, as they previously had a contract to fight.
“But if those fights aren’t available, we’ve got to fight someone. So, we will listen if Frank [Warren] wants to make an offer.”
Parker fight could lead to undisputed title shot
Parker currently holds the WBO interim title, and if Joshua were to defeat him again, he could earn a shot at the undisputed heavyweight championship. A victory might position him to challenge the winner of Dubois vs. Usyk, setting him up for a potential third reign as heavyweight world champion.
However, Hearn insists Joshua’s commercial star power allows him to choose his path rather than relying on mandatory positions.
“He’s the biggest commercial draw in heavyweight boxing. I’m just telling you Joshua is the biggest draw in the heavyweight division, bar none. So, we can fight who we want.”
Anthony Joshua’s recovery timeline delays fight plans
Anthony Joshua is currently recovering from his knockout loss to Dubois and is not yet ready to return to full training.
“He went back to the gym, but unfortunately, he’s not ready to start punching again. He’s going to need another six, seven weeks.”
“We’re not rushing around, making calls, or asking for fights. When he’s ready, we’ll make the decision. Who knows who will come out of the woodwork?”
Jake Paul calls out Anthony Joshua for 2026 fight
Despite his recent setbacks, Joshua remains a sought-after opponent. This week, YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul publicly called him out, revealing that they had a surprise phone conversation regarding a potential fight. However, Paul is only interested in facing Joshua in 2026.
For now, Joshua remains out of action, waiting to decide on his next move once he is fully fit.
