Eddie Hearn: Anthony Joshua may not return to the ring until February 2026.

The situation with Anthony Joshua's return

According to The Sun: Eddie Hearn reported that Anthony Joshua may face a long hiatus that could extend to 18 months.

The 2012 Olympic legend suffered a heavy defeat to Daniel Dubois last September.

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The head of Matchroom emphasized that Joshua may activate the immediate rematch clause, but the Watford sportsman has been injured and has not yet returned to training.

Joshua, a two-time heavyweight world champion, has taken advantage of the recovery period by traveling to Nigeria, where his parents live, as well as to Ghana, where he was welcomed like a star.

If he steps into the ring by around Valentine's Day, it will be his longest absence, as the COVID lockdown delayed his victories over Andy Ruiz Jr. and Kubrat Pulev by a year.

Discussing the media, Hearn noted that Joshua does not comment on his return, although he himself has been actively negotiating possible fights last year, during the autumn and New Year holidays.

However, after the fight with Jake Paul fell through, Hearn now suggests that Joshua may not appear in the ring until February 2026.

In his latest podcast, the Essex businessman said: 'With each day, it becomes more likely that [Anthony Joshua] will return to the ring in January/February. He has traveled, but has now returned to training after elbow surgery.

“But the big fights take time, and every Joshua performance is a major event.”

“We have seen a lot of encounters in Ghana in recent weeks.”

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The idea of organizing a fight for Joshua in Africa remains relevant, as he proudly bears a tattoo of Nigeria on his shoulder. However, there are many difficulties related to infrastructure, politics, and funding. Despite this, Hearn continues to hope to implement a modern version of the 'Rumble in the Jungle'.

He noted: 'We made an offer for a fight in Africa, and I believe it would be simply amazing for Joshua.'

“I don't see the point in saying this will happen in December.”

Eddie Hearn

“So, if Ghana is ready to host a fight in January/February, it could be a suitable proposal.

“I don't think we need to rush, as he hasn't stepped into the ring for almost a year.”

When Joshua returns, after the longest absence of his career, Hearn is confident that a grand battle with Tyson Fury will again be in the plans.

“The next fight he has will probably be a preparatory one before we finally see him in a triumphant battle. Let's hope it's Tyson Fury. If not, he will box one of the top 5 heavyweights.”

A brief summary: Anthony Joshua is going through a difficult stage in his career, recovering from injury and awaiting a return. His next fight could be a significant event for fans, as Hearn is actively working to make Joshua's return dignified and anticipated. Significant considerations also relate to the idea of holding a fight in Africa, which underscores the athlete's connection to his roots.