Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has revealed that British heavyweight star Anthony Joshua could hang up his gloves as early as 2026, suggesting the former world champion may have only three more fights left in his career.
Speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, Hearn, who has managed Joshua’s professional journey since his gold medal triumph at the London 2012 Olympics, said: “Probably 2026 will be his last year in the sport. You never know, but thinking about it, it’s probably three fights away.”
Joshua, a two-time world heavyweight champion, has not stepped into the ring since suffering a brutal knockout defeat to fellow Briton Daniel Dubois nine months ago. The loss left fans questioning what’s next for the 34-year-old, who once dominated the division.
Hearn hinted that any return could be focused around blockbuster bouts, potentially including a long-awaited clash with WBC champion Tyson Fury. “If I’m advising AJ I’m thinking, ‘We’re back this year, two Tyson Fury fights, what else is there to do?’” Hearn added.
