The boxing world is buzzing with anticipation as Anthony Joshua eyes his return to the ring. Following his defeat to Daniel Dubois in September 2024, and a subsequent elbow surgery, AJ is meticulously planning his next move, with a potential mega-fight against Tyson Fury looming on the horizon in 2026.

Before any potential clash with Fury, Joshua intends to engage in a warm-up bout to shake off any ring rust and re-establish his dominance. To that end, a list of ten potential opponents has been compiled, each presenting a unique challenge and opportunity for Joshua to showcase his skills.

Tyson Fury's recent career trajectory has been equally eventful. Following two losses to Oleksandr Usyk, Fury had initially announced his retirement in January. However, whispers of a comeback have been circulating, fueling speculation about a future showdown with Joshua.

Eddie Hearn, Joshua's promoter, has been instrumental in navigating these complex negotiations. He's expressed optimism about securing a date for Joshua's return and is confident that the highly anticipated Fury fight will eventually materialize.

Hearn's recent statements suggest a renewed focus and determination within the Joshua camp. AJ's social media activity has also hinted at his readiness to step back into the spotlight and reclaim his position as a heavyweight force.

The plan, as it stands, involves Joshua participating in a tune-up fight in early 2026, followed by a potential blockbuster clash with Tyson Fury. While no formal conversations have taken place with Fury's team, Hearn remains optimistic based on the overall vibe and confidence emanating from their side.

However, Hearn is also cautious, emphasizing the need to remain focused on the immediate challenge. Joshua's upcoming fight is paramount, and all efforts are concentrated on securing a victory before contemplating any future matchups.

Among the potential opponents being considered for Joshua's return is Tony Yoka, the 2016 Olympic gold medalist. Yoka presents an intriguing option, offering a degree of danger while allowing Joshua to demonstrate his readiness for high-stakes competition.

Hearn clarified that the chosen opponent will likely be a fighter ranked within the top 20, but not necessarily a top-five contender. The goal is to provide Joshua with a meaningful test without exposing him to excessive risk during his comeback.

While names are being considered and preliminary discussions are underway, no concrete offers have been made at this stage. Hearn plans to meet with Joshua in the coming week to finalize the details and lock in a date for his return.

Intriguingly, Jake Paul, the social media personality turned boxer, has also expressed interest in facing Anthony Joshua in 2026. However, Hearn has downplayed the possibility, emphasizing that Joshua's team is not actively pursuing a fight with Paul.

Paul's camp, however, maintains that a bout with Joshua remains their ultimate objective. The complication arises from Paul's announced exhibition match against lightweight champion Gervonta Davis.

Hearn voiced concerns about the potential impact of the Davis fight on Paul's chances of facing Joshua. A significant defeat against Davis could diminish Paul's credibility and make a fight with Joshua less appealing.

Hearn stated that he wouldn't consider scheduling a fight between Joshua and Paul until after Paul's exhibition with Davis. The outcome of that event will significantly influence the viability of a potential Joshua-Paul matchup.

Ultimately, Joshua's team is prioritizing its own plans, focusing on a return to the ring in early 2026 and the potential clash with Tyson Fury. The possibility of a Jake Paul fight remains a distant prospect, contingent on various factors.

Joshua's return to Ghana has also been proposed, offering a chance for him to connect with his heritage and fight in front of a passionate home crowd. This option adds another layer of intrigue to the ongoing discussions about his next opponent and fight location.

The boxing landscape is constantly shifting, with new opportunities and challenges emerging all the time. Anthony Joshua's team is carefully navigating these complexities to ensure he is positioned for success in the years to come.

The anticipation surrounding Joshua's return is palpable. Fans are eager to see him back in action, showcasing his power and skill against a formidable opponent. The road to a potential Fury fight is paved with challenges, but Joshua appears determined to overcome them all.

As the negotiations progress, the boxing world will be watching closely, eager to learn the identity of Joshua's next opponent and the date of his highly anticipated return. The stakes are high, and the potential rewards are enormous.

With his career at a pivotal juncture, Anthony Joshua is poised to embark on a new chapter, one filled with ambition, determination, and the pursuit of heavyweight glory. The journey begins with his next fight, a crucial step towards realizing his ultimate goals.

Stay tuned for further updates as the details of Anthony Joshua's return become clearer. The boxing world is on the edge of its seat, eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this compelling story.

The strategic planning behind Joshua's comeback highlights the complex nature of modern boxing, where business decisions and promotional considerations often play as significant a role as in-ring performance. The road ahead is full of potential pitfalls and opportunities, and only time will tell if Joshua can navigate it successfully and reclaim his place at the top of the heavyweight division. Learn more about boxing strategies.