Anthony Joshua’s Next Big Fight: Who Will Step Into The Ring?
In the electrifying atmosphere of Saudi Arabia, Anthony Joshua’s devastating knockout of Francis Ngannou sent a clear message to the heavyweight division: AJ is back and more formidable than ever. Following this remarkable victory, which extended his win streak to four consecutive fights, speculation is rife about Joshua’s next opponent. With options aplenty, the former two-time unified heavyweight champion’s path forward is laden with potential blockbuster bouts. In an insightful article by Mark Lelewallin for DAZN Boxing, three possible contenders emerge, each offering a unique storyline and challenge for AJ.
Waiting Out Fury-Usyk
First on the list is the possibility of Joshua facing the victor of the highly-anticipated Tyson Fury-Oleksandr Usyk match slated for May 18. This fight, which promises to captivate audiences worldwide, could set the stage for Joshua’s return to the pinnacle of heavyweight boxing. However, with both Fury and Usyk possessing a rematch clause, and Fury indicating a potential rematch in October, Joshua faces a potential period of inactivity should he choose this route. Despite this, Fury’s openness to a clash with AJ post-Usyk, as he told DAZN, adds a tantalising edge to the heavyweight saga.
Filip Hrgovic: A Fresh Challenge
Should the Fury-Usyk timeline extend too far into the future, Croatian powerhouse Filip Hrgovic presents an intriguing option. Undefeated and fresh off a first-round TKO victory over Mark de Mori, Hrgovic’s clash with Joshua could not only excite fans but also potentially have the IBF title on the line. With London as a probable venue, this fight could offer Joshua the chance to halt Hrgovic’s ascent and add an impressive name to his list of conquests.
Joseph Parker: A Rematch with History
Joseph Parker’s resurgence in the heavyweight division cannot be ignored. Having tallied five straight victories since his loss to Joe Joyce, Parker’s recent majority decision win over Zhilei Zhang, despite being knocked down twice, demonstrates his tenacity and skill. A rematch between Joshua, who defeated Parker in 2018, and the now WBO interim heavyweight titleholder, presents an alluring narrative of redemption and rivalry.
Conclusion: Exciting Times Ahead for AJ
As the heavyweight division continues to evolve, Anthony Joshua finds himself at a crossroads filled with opportunity and challenge. Whether he opts to wait for the Fury-Usyk outcome, test his mettle against the rising Hrgovic, or seek to reaffirm his dominance over Parker, AJ’s next move is eagerly anticipated by fans and pundits alike. The path he chooses will not only shape his career but also the future of heavyweight boxing. With thanks to Mark Lelewallin and DAZN Boxing for their original insights, the boxing world waits with bated breath to see who will next step into the ring with Anthony Joshua.
