Eddie Hearn has reignited hopes for a long-awaited showdown between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, even after Joshua’s crushing defeat by Daniel Dubois.
Joshua, who went up against Dubois in an IBF world heavyweight title bout at Wembley on Saturday, found himself on the back foot from the start and was ultimately knocked out in the fifth round. The loss has thrown Joshua’s future into uncertainty, especially as he missed the opportunity to claim the heavyweight world championship for a third time.
For years, boxing fans have clamored for a mega-fight between Joshua and Fury, with both heavyweights trading public challenges but failing to lock in a deal. However, Hearn, Joshua’s promoter, has offered fresh optimism that the blockbuster fight may finally come to fruition, although he emphasized that other options remain on the table.
“Of course, in an ideal world, we’d like to think we should be beating Daniel Dubois, and I believe we can,” Hearn told TNT Sports. “But after a tough loss like this, are you ready to jump straight back in? Like with Ruiz and Usyk? We have that option for February, but is it too soon?”
Hearn hinted that a match against Fury might be the perfect way for Joshua to end his storied career. “If Tyson Fury loses to Usyk, Joshua and Fury could fight twice and walk off into the sunset. If Fury wins, he could defend the unified world championship against AJ.”
Despite the crushing loss, Hearn was gracious in praising Dubois’ performance, insisting that the 34-year-old Joshua wasn’t at his best but that Dubois executed his game plan perfectly. “People are quick to criticize AJ, but let’s take a moment to acknowledge how well Dubois fought. He did everything right, while AJ couldn’t execute his plan.”
As for what’s next, Hearn urged patience, stating that it’s too early to make a decision on Joshua’s next fight. “In AJ’s mind, he might want a rematch with Dubois right away, but this is a crucial moment in his career. We need time to make the right decision for what will likely be the final chapter of his career – and hopefully, the best one yet.”
The road ahead for Joshua is uncertain, but fans are holding out hope that a showdown with Fury is finally within reach.
