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Deontay Wilder’s triumph over Derek Chisora means a long-awaited showdown with Anthony Joshua could be back on the cards. Now, super-middleweight legend Carl Froch has offered his thoughts on the proposed clash.

In a wild fight, ‘The Bronze Bomber’ did enough to claim a split-decision victory over Chisora, handing the British veteran a first career defeat since 2022 and winning on points for the first time since 2015.

As a result, Wilder is expected to benefit from Chisora’s #2 position with the IBF and the Alabama powerhouse may be within touching distance of a shot at becoming a two-time world champion.

READ MORE: Top reason why Anthony Joshua ready to fight Wilder

 

The American also appears keen on a lucrative affair against long-term rival Joshua, and fans are already debating how it would play out years after it was first discussed.

Anthony Joshua

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Hall of Fame inductee Froch said that he is not convinced that Joshua possesses the confidence to take on Wilder.

“Eddie Hearn will be telling him [Joshua] that that’s the fight, because he is right, Eddie knows how to make money, he is a businessman and he is a top promoter. He will be saying, ‘look, Deontay Wilder is the fight for you’.

“He is still a big name, he has now come off the back of a win against Chisora, so he is fresh in the mind of everybody, but I don’t know if AJ believes that he can beat Deontay Wilder.

MORE NEWS: Fight between Deontay Wilder vs Derek Chisora, referee will not face sanctions

Anthony Joshua

“Maybe he does, maybe he wants to come back and maybe he wants to fight again. But, I think if Deontay Wilder throws a couple of meaningful right hands and connects on AJ’s chin, then the fight is over. AJ will be knocked out.

“He has got to fight confident in that fight. He has got to get behind the jab and he has got to put shots together. Wilder looks like he can still tee up and load up with that right uppercut and that right hand – if he connects on AJ’s chin, it could be game over.”

Joshua is expected to return to the ring in late summer, with the top dogs of his era, Wilder and Tyson Fury, once again being the demanded dance partners for the two-time heavyweight ruler.

Anthony Joshua is willing to put his money-spinning clash with Tyson Fury at risk by facing Deontay Wilder this summer.

Joshua watched Wilder edge out Derek Chisora on Saturday night in his first public appearance since he was involved in a tragic car crash last December. The former heavyweight world champion has been recuperating since the smash which killed his close friends Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele.

But Joshua is now back in training and has pencilled in his return for July. And after witnessing Wilder drop Chisora en route to a split-decision points victory, the Brit is ready to finally settle their long-running rivalry. The pair held talks in 2018 when they both held versions of the world championship but a $50million deal collapsed.Anthony Joshua

And contracts were signed in 2023 for a two-fight dust-up only for Wilder to lose to Joseph Parker to leave the plan in ruins. The American crossed paths with Joshua as he left the ring on Saturday and demanded: “Now let’s get it on”. At 40, Wilder is past the peak of his devastating powers and was unable to knock out Chisora in the Brit’s farewell fight.

Anthony Joshua

He will also undergo scans on his right hand amid fears he fractured it during his 45th career victory. But should he and Joshua strike a deal, Wilder still possesses the power to wreck the long-awaited Battle of Britain. Fury will end his 16-month hiatus from the ring on Saturday night against Arslanbek Makhmudov with Joshua expected to be in attendance.

Deontay Wilder calls out Anthony Joshua for a boxing match

Wilder Calls Out Joshua After Chisora Victory

American boxer Deontay Wilder has intensified talks of a blockbuster clash with British heavyweight Anthony Joshua. Moments after defeating Derek Chisora, Wilder boldly called out Joshua and pushed for a long-awaited showdown.

Anthony Joshua vs Deontay Wilder will be blocked if AJ hires one of three  coaching options | Boxing | Sport | Express.co.uk

Joshua Supports Chisora at O2 Arena

Two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua attended the fight at London’s O2 Arena on Saturday, April 4, 2026, to support his longtime friend Derek Chisora. Many fans believe Chisora may have fought his final bout that night.

Joshua Returns to Training After Difficult Period

After dominating Jake Paul in Florida in 2025, Joshua stepped away from the spotlight. A tragic accident in Nigeria claimed the lives of two of his close friends and deeply affected him. Recently, he resumed training and worked in Ukraine with Oleksandr Usyk. This move has fueled speculation about a potential fight with Tyson Fury.

Tense Ringside Exchange Sparks Excitement

At the O2 Arena, Wilder approached Joshua, exchanged a fist bump, and issued a direct challenge. “Let’s do it,” he said, before later adding, “He’s scared.”

Wilder later confirmed the exchange and made his intentions clear.
“It wasn’t just a few words—I dapped him up and said, ‘Now let’s get it on,’” he said.

“I’m ready for anyone in the heavyweight division. Call me Mr. Clean because I want to clean up the whole division. The division is nothing without me.”

Wilder Secures 45th Career Victory

Wilder earned a split-decision win over Chisora. Two judges scored the fight 115–111 and 115–113 in his favor, while one judge gave Chisora a 115–112 edge. The victory marked Wilder’s 45th win in 50 fights.

Joshua’s Last Fight and Personal Loss

Joshua last fought on December 19, 2025, when he stopped Jake Paul in the sixth round. Shortly after, he traveled to Nigeria, where a tragic accident claimed the lives of Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele. Joshua survived the incident with minor injuries.

Promoter reveals surprising venue and date for Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua

Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua Set for Dublin Showdown

Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua have reportedly agreed to finally meet in the ring this autumn—but in a surprising twist, organizers have chosen Dublin instead of the UK as the host city.

Both former heavyweight champions remain major figures in boxing despite accumulating six losses between them. They came close to fighting multiple times, most notably in 2021 when they held all the major belts, and fans have continued to demand the matchup ever since.

Poll: Will Tyson Fury-Anthony Joshua actually happen in 2021? | Bad Left  Hook

Why Dublin? A Surprising Venue Choice

Fury’s strong Irish connections—through his heritage and amateur boxing career—make Dublin a meaningful location for him. Still, promoters rarely stage major pay-per-view boxing events there, and many expected a blockbuster fight of this magnitude to take place in London or Manchester.

By choosing Dublin, organizers may have found neutral ground that satisfies both camps. However, fans continue to hope that promoters might still reconsider the venue before final confirmation.

Promoter Confirms Fight Plans

During a press conference ahead of Derek Chisora vs Deontay Wilder, veteran promoter Kalle Sauerland revealed key details about the long-anticipated fight.

Speaking to IFL TV, Sauerland stated that organizers have already finalized the deal, including the date and venue.

He also highlighted the stakes for Chisora and Wilder, noting that the winner could face Oleksandr Usyk next.

Sauerland later confirmed that Fury vs Joshua is “done” for autumn in Dublin—a claim reporter Joe Pugh reinforced, suggesting a September or October timeline.

Potential Mega Event in Ireland

The Dublin event could grow into a historic boxing spectacle. Katie Taylor may also fight on the card as she eyes a career finale at Croke Park, a venue capable of hosting over 82,000 fans.

Promoter Frank Warren has also teased additional major fights, including one involving Pierce O’Leary. He even hinted at a rare collaboration with Matchroom Boxing and Eddie Hearn, which could elevate the event into one of Europe’s biggest boxing nights.

What This Means for Fans

If confirmed, Fury vs Joshua in Dublin would mark one of the most significant heavyweight clashes in recent years—both for its long-awaited nature and its unexpected location.

While the venue choice has divided opinion, the fight itself remains one of the most anticipated matchups in modern boxing.

Why Moses Itauma targets Anthony Joshua

Itauma Calls for Joshua Fight After Statement Win

Fresh off his stoppage win over Jermaine Franklin, Moses Itauma has openly welcomed a fight with Anthony Joshua, according to boxingnews.com.

Itauma made a strong statement in Manchester’s Co-op Live arena last weekend. He became the first fighter to stop the durable Franklin, securing a fifth-round knockout.

David Haye says there would be only one winner if Moses Itauma fought Anthony  Joshua right now | Boxing News

When asked about a potential clash with the former two-time champion, Itauma gave a direct response:
“If that’s a fight to make, that’s a fight to make.”


Momentum Builds for a Breakthrough Opportunity

By stopping a fighter who went the distance with both Joshua and Dillian Whyte, Itauma has strengthened his case for a shot at the elite level.

He now stands at 14-0, with 12 knockouts, and continues his push to become the youngest British heavyweight champion in history.

However, Joshua’s 2026 has been shaped by personal tragedy. A fatal car crash earlier this year claimed the lives of close friends, delaying his return to training camp.

Promoter Eddie Hearn now targets a late summer return, likely in July or August, for the 36-year-old.


Heavyweight Landscape: Multiple Paths Ahead

Despite years of failed negotiations, a showdown between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua remains a top priority. Fury is scheduled to face Arslanbek Makhmudov on April 11, while Joshua is still searching for his next opponent.

Meanwhile, promoter Frank Warren continues to praise Itauma, calling him the best heavyweight he has worked with.

Warren remains open to matching Itauma with Joshua, but he is also mapping a direct route to a world title shot against Oleksandr Usyk later this year.


Tactical Breakdown: Itauma’s Approach

A potential fight would center on the classic southpaw vs. orthodox dynamic.

Itauma would aim to position his lead foot outside Joshua’s. This would open angles for his straight left hand and allow him to control exchanges early.

He would likely apply pressure from the start, forcing Joshua into a defensive shell—similar to what he achieved in the third round against Franklin.

Itauma also uses level-changing feints to the body. These feints often draw an opponent’s guard downward, creating openings upstairs. If Joshua reacts too heavily to body attacks, Itauma could exploit that with sharp head-body-head combinations.


Joshua’s Keys to Victory

Joshua must reassert control at long range. His reach and experience remain major advantages.

As Itauma tries to close distance, Joshua needs to intercept him with precise counters. The check hook and straight right hand will be crucial tools.

He used a similar right hand effectively against Francis Ngannou, and he could rely on that same weapon again.

If Joshua maintains distance and timing, he can disrupt Itauma’s rhythm and dictate the pace of the fight.

Anthony Joshua has returned to the roots that made him a global boxing superstar, reconnecting with his first-ever coach, Sean Murphy, and the Finchley Amateur Boxing Club, months after a horrific car crash in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his closest friends.

The 36-year-old British heavyweight survived the December 29 accident, which took the lives of personal trainer Kevin “Latz” Ayodele and long-time therapist Sina Ghami, just days after his high-profile win over YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in Miami.

Anthony Joshua

Joshua has been undergoing intensive physical therapy, focusing on recovery from rib injuries sustained in the crash. Now, he appears ready to step up his training once again, reconnecting with Murphy, the coach who first spotted his potential at Finchley and guided him to national championships, Olympic gold, and eventually, unified heavyweight world titles.

Anthony Joshua

Sharing snapshots and videos on Instagram, AJ captioned one: “Quality time with [Sean Murphy].”

The boxing superstar first walked into Finchley Amateur Boxing Club at age 18, seeking a way out of trouble on the streets of London. Murphy nurtured his talent, helping him achieve glory in the amateur ranks before Olympic success under Team GB head coach Rob McCracken.

Anthony Joshua's next opponent? Kingsley Ibeh calls for AJ fight in  Nigeria: 'I will definitely knock him out!' | Boxing News | Sky Sports

After turning professional, Joshua won multiple world titles but parted ways with Murphy following a 2021 defeat to Oleksandr Usyk, moving between high-profile trainers including Robert Garcia, Derrick James, and most recently, Ben Davison, who cornered him for bouts against Francis Ngannou, Jake Paul, and Daniel Dubois.

 

Hearn denies Joshua, Fury fight signed

Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn has dismissed reports claiming a blockbuster heavyweight clash between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury has already been agreed. He directly contradicted boxing journalist Gareth A Davies, who said the all-British showdown was finalized and headed to Netflix.

Davies told talkSPORT that powerful financial backers had secured the fight behind the scenes. “The Fury-Joshua fight is signed. It’s done in the background. I’ve got that on good authority. It’s with the big money people. It’ll be on Netflix,” he said.

Tyson Fury still Eddie Hearn's favored opponent for Anthony Joshua as  boxing promoter outlines plan

Hearn firmly rejected that claim.

“There is absolutely nothing signed with Anthony Joshua to fight Tyson Fury next. There is nothing agreed,” he stated.


Plans Disrupted by Tragic Accident

Hearn explained that earlier discussions had outlined a clear plan for Joshua before a devastating car accident changed everything.

“There were deep conversations before the accident,” Hearn said. “The plan was for him to fight Jake Paul, then return in February or March in Saudi Arabia, and then face Tyson Fury.”

That plan collapsed after the December 29 crash on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, which claimed the lives of Joshua’s close team members—his personal trainer Kevin Ayodele and recovery therapist Sina Ghami. The incident happened just 10 days after Joshua stopped Jake Paul in six rounds in Miami.


Fresh Talks Only Just Beginning

Hearn emphasized that discussions about the Fury fight only recently resumed.

“We haven’t really talked about that fight since the accident,” he said. “Only in the last few days have we started thinking about revisiting the plan.”

Joshua has now returned to training and is targeting a summer comeback.


Possible Return Opponent for Joshua

Dillian Whyte has emerged as a leading candidate for Joshua’s comeback fight. If Joshua wins convincingly, a long-awaited clash with Fury could still happen later in the year.


Fury Set for April Return

Meanwhile, Tyson Fury will return to the ring on April 11. He faces knockout artist Arslanbek Makhmudov at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on a Netflix card that also features Conor Benn.

Fury had announced his retirement more than a year ago but later reversed his decision, setting the stage for another run in the heavyweight division.


Outlook

Although fans are eager for a Joshua vs Fury showdown, no deal is currently in place. Talks have only just restarted, and both fighters remain focused on their respective comeback paths.

Anthony Joshua ‘not far away’ from starting camp for July boxing return for first fight since horror crash

Return to Training on the Horizon

Anthony Joshua plans to enter training camp in the coming weeks as he targets a return to the ring this summer. The former two-time unified heavyweight champion has stayed out of action since his dominant win over Jake Paul last December.

Anthony Joshua Knocks Out Jake Paul in Sixth Round of Miami Heavyweight  Showdown | BellaNaija

Recovery After Devastating Accident

Just ten days after that fight, Joshua experienced a life-changing tragedy. He survived a horrific car crash in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his close friends. While he escaped with minor injuries, he has focused on rehabilitation and recovery ever since.

Eddie Hearn Provides Update

Promoter Eddie Hearn shared insight into Joshua’s current condition and mindset. He explained that Joshua thrives in training camp but hasn’t returned yet because he needed time to recover physically.

Hearn expects Joshua to resume training soon, even without a confirmed opponent or fight date. The immediate goal is to help him regain rhythm and comfort in the gym environment.

Building Back Without Pressure

Joshua will ease back into camp before making any major decisions. Hearn plans to meet him after a few weeks of training to discuss potential plans for a return, which he anticipates could happen around July.

Training Alongside Familiar Rival

Joshua has already taken a step forward by training with former rival Oleksandr Usyk. However, he has not yet officially begun a full training camp as he continues to assess his fitness.

Honouring Lost Friends

The emotional impact of the accident still weighs heavily on Joshua. The crash took the lives of his long-time friends and team members, Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway.

Joshua has committed to honouring their legacy as he moves forward in both life and boxing.

A Difficult Road Ahead

Hearn acknowledged the emotional toll of the tragedy, noting that while Joshua remains a positive person, the loss of close friends is something that never truly fades.

 Joshua Ready For Ring Return, Says Hearn

Anthony Joshua is preparing to return to the boxing ring, according to his promoter Eddie Hearn, who says the former champion is finally “physically and mentally ready” to resume his career after a difficult few months.

Hearn confirmed that Joshua has resumed training at his old amateur gym in Finchley, London, marking the start of his journey back towards a third world title reign.

Anthony Joshua, Knockout Machine. And He Can Box. - The New York Times

The promoter is optimistic that this could lead to a major fight later this year, potentially against fellow British star Tyson Fury.

The comeback comes after a tragic road accident in Nigeria three months ago, which killed two of Joshua’s close friends and left him with minor injuries and emotional scars.

Hearn acknowledged the psychological toll of the incident but believes that returning to the gym is a crucial step forward.

“For everything that he’s been through and all the pain, I don’t think that will leave,” Hearn told iFL TV.

“But he has a career and a job to do, and he wants to keep doing it. I’m excited to see him back.”

 

Why Anthony Joshua Set For Ring Return After Difficult Months, Says Eddie Hearn

Joshua Preparing for Ring Return

Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is preparing to return to the boxing ring as he begins a fresh bid for a third world title, according to his promoter Eddie Hearn.

Hearn said the British-Nigerian fighter is now “physically and mentally ready” to resume full training after a difficult period marked by personal tragedy.

Anthony Joshua: 'I need to be a billionaire' | British GQ | British GQ

The promoter also expressed optimism that Joshua could feature in a high-profile bout later this year. One potential opponent is fellow British heavyweight Tyson Fury, widely known as “The Gypsy King.”

Return to His Roots

Joshua, a gold medallist at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, has recently returned to training at his former amateur gym in Finchley.

The gym holds special significance for the former champion, as it was where he began his boxing career.

Tragedy in Nigeria

His planned comeback follows a traumatic road accident near Sagamu in Ogun State, Nigeria, about three months ago.

The crash claimed the lives of two of his close friends, Kevin Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami. Joshua sustained minor injuries but was left dealing with the emotional aftermath of the tragedy.

Promoter Confident of Comeback

Hearn acknowledged the psychological toll of the incident but believes returning to the gym could help Joshua move forward.

“We’re very close to returning to training camp,” Hearn told iFL TV.

“I feel like AJ is physically and perhaps mentally ready to throw himself back into that environment, and it’s exciting.”

Focus on Future Title Shot

Hearn added that the emotional scars from the accident may remain, but Joshua remains determined to continue his boxing career.

“For everything that he’s been through and all the pain, I don’t think that will leave,” Hearn said.

“But he has a career and a job to do, and he wants to keep doing it. I’m excited to see him back.”

Joshua, a former two-time unified heavyweight champion, is widely expected to return to the ring later this year as he aims to re-enter the world title picture.