Anthony Joshua Retirement: Hearn Predicts 2026 Exit
- Anthony Joshua, the two-time unified heavyweight champion, might potentially be nearing the end of his boxing career.
- Joshua (28-4, 25 KOs) last fought in September, when Daniel Dubois stopped him in an IBF heavyweight title fight.
- Hearn said, "Thinking about it, its probably three fights away.If I'm advising AJ, I'm thinking, 'We're back this year, two Tyson Fury fights, what else is there to...
Anthony Joshua Coudl Retire in 2026, Says Eddie Hearn
Anthony Joshua, the two-time unified heavyweight champion, might potentially be nearing the end of his boxing career. Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn indicated that Joshua, 35, could retire as soon as 2026. Hearn told ”Ariel x Ade” that 2026 “probably will be his last year in the sport.”
Joshua (28-4, 25 KOs) last fought in September, when Daniel Dubois stopped him in an IBF heavyweight title fight. Hearn believes that the most desirable fights for Joshua are against Tyson Fury.
Hearn said, “Thinking about it, its probably three fights away.If I’m advising AJ, I’m thinking, ’We’re back this year, two Tyson Fury fights, what else is there to do?'”
While hearn acknowledged potential rematches against Dubois and Oleksandr Usyk, he emphasized the meaning of Joshua concluding his career with victories over Fury. The promoter believes these fights would be a fitting end to Joshua’s career.
“If we get to 2026 and he’s firing on all cylinders,then 2026 won’t be his last year,” Hearn said. “But for me, something feels right about beating Tyson Fury twice and then sailing off into the sunset.”
A Joshua-Fury fight has been discussed for years, but has never materialized. Now, with both fighters later in their careers, the possibility of them finally meeting in the ring seems more realistic.
What’s next
Joshua is expected to return to the ring later this year,with potential opponents and dates to be announced. The focus remains on securing a high-profile fight against Tyson Fury before Joshua considers retirement.