Two opponents simultaneously challenged Anthony Joshua to a fight.

According to The Sun: Anthony Joshua received challenges from two heavyweights simultaneously as he prepares to return to the ring.

Joshua has resumed training after being knocked out by Daniel Dubois in September 2024 at Wembley Stadium.

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His promoter Eddie Hearn stated that at least one fight is planned at a lower level before focusing on a clash with Tyson Fury.

Arslanbek Makhmudov and Guido Vianello are the two boxers who expressed their desire to fight Joshua.

Makhmudov has already defeated Dave Allen in Sheffield and claimed that Joshua promised him a fight if he wins.

After the fight, Makhmudov, who is 36 years old, said:

“Anthony Joshua, where are you? I’m coming for you.”

“I have already talked to him, and he gave me his word that he would fight me next year. I am ready.”

Camille Estephan, Makhmudov's promoter, told Sky Sports:

“Definitely, I think this will be a great fight.”

 

“Arslanbek showed against Allen that he has more than just knockout power.”

 

“The question is, can AJ withstand Makhmudov's power? I think many fans want to find out.”

That same evening, Italian Vianello, 31 years old, defeated Alexis Barreira in Philadelphia and said:

“Now I need a big name.”

 

“You want to know which big name I want? Anthony Joshua. I want him standing in front of me.”

 

“Let’s fight in Rome, in the Colosseum or in London – whatever. But give me a big name, please. I’m 31, I don’t have time to waste, I want to win now.”

Joshua, 35 years old, is returning to training ahead of his next fight, which is likely to take place in February. The fight with Fury, 37 years old, is scheduled for the end of 2026.

Hearn told Sky:

“The plan is very important.”

 

“The most important thing is Joshua's confidence in his abilities and readiness to defeat Tyson Fury.”

 

“We need to plan this so that AJ is in the best shape for what will be the biggest moment of his career, I believe that.”

 

“If he boxes this year, it will only be a warm-up. It won’t be a top-15 opponent.”

 

“He will either have two fights before Tyson Fury if we can arrange it, or one fight in February.”

 

“We haven’t decided yet, but he wants to stay active.”

Shutterstock Editorial Getty Images - Getty Joshua is currently on the brink of a major showdown, as both of his potential opponents have big ambitions. If all goes according to plan, we should expect an active year for Joshua, which could be decisive for his further career. The fight with Fury, scheduled for the end of 2026, promises to be a real test for both boxers.