Anthony Joshua’s promoter Eddie has given an update as to when we can expect to see the former two-time world heavyweight champion in the ring next.
The original plan was to see Joshua return to action in December, but when the Tyson Fury fight fell through that date was pushed back to January/February, it now seems we’ll have to wait a little longer for AJ’s comeback.
Speaking to iFL TV, Hearn explained why fans will now likely have to wait until late March to see the Brit in action again.
“When you miss an opportunity like Fury, then your mojo goes a little bit, then you get to November and you’re like: ‘I’m probably not going to fight in December’ then it’s like ‘I’ve got Christmas and I’m not going to fight in January’ and then February’s there and before you know it you’re looking at March.”
He’s stayed out in the Middle East, he’s having a holiday and then he’s going to go back into camp. The plan for us is the middle/end of March really.
Then you get comments like ‘why’s he’s going to March?’ Just because he wanted a couple more weeks holiday really. He’s still focused, still hungry.”
After losing his rematch to Oleksandr Usyk in Saudi Arabia in August, Joshua was called put by Fury, who appeared to offer him a shot at his WBC belt after Usyk declared he wouldn’t be ready for an undisputed clash until February/March at the earliest.
Joshua jumped at the chance with the target 3rd December at the Principality Stadium, Cardiff. For one reason or another, negotiations broke down at the end of September and ‘The Gypsy King’ will instead fight Derek Chisora at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on the same date.
As for his next opponent, AJ is likely to face the winner of Dillian Whyte vs Jermaine Franklin which takes place on 26th November at Wembley Arena.
Joshua and Whyte have history having met in the amateur and pro ranks. Their last meeting ended in victory for Joshua, stopping Whyte in the seventh round to claim the British heavyweight title.