Anthony Joshua next fight gathers momentum as Eddie Hearn opens up on key decision

Callum Vurley

By Callum Vurley


Published: 08/10/2024

- 22:40

Anthony Joshua has his sights set on a new fight after losing to Daniel Dubois

Anthony Joshua's potential rematch with Daniel Dubois could be heading to Saudi Arabia, according to promoter Eddie Hearn.

Speaking to Fight Hub TV, Hearn suggested the bout might take place during Riyadh Season, which runs from October to early March.


"I think it would be part of Riyadh Season in Riyadh," Hearn said.

The promoter's comments come just weeks after Dubois shocked Joshua with a fifth-round knockout at Wembley Stadium.

While a rematch clause exists, Hearn indicated that Joshua faces a "big decision" regarding his next move.

Hearn elaborated on the decision facing Joshua, stating, "The big decision now really is - do we take the rematch?"

He noted that Joshua typically leans towards immediate rematches, as seen with Andy Ruiz and Oleksandr Usyk.

However, Hearn also mentioned the possibility of waiting for the outcome of the Tyson Fury vs Usyk fight scheduled for December 21.

"But he said something the other day: 'What happens if one of them gets injured?'" Hearn added, highlighting the potential risks of delaying Joshua's return to the ring.

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The promoter emphasised that a rematch with Dubois would offer Joshua "a straight shot at a world heavyweight title".

While Hearn considers the rematch, boxing promoter Bob Arum has issued a stark warning to Joshua.

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Speaking to Yardbreaker, Arum criticised the British boxer's abilities, stating, "I never thought he was a great fighter, particularly after the Andy Ruiz fight [in 2019]."

Arum was particularly emphatic about the dangers of a rematch, asserting, "The worst thing for him would be to fight Dubois again."

The veteran promoter's comments cast doubt on Joshua's future prospects, suggesting that another loss "could all but end his career".

Eddie Hearn

Eddie Hearn has opened up on the latest on Anthony Joshua's next fight

Reuters

Despite the loss to Dubois, Hearn maintains that Joshua is content with his current training setup.

Speaking to Fight Hub TV, Hearn said, "He's happy. He has to make the changes himself. There was a clear plan of what to do, but he didn't do it and you have to give credit to Daniel Dubois as well."

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Daniel DUbois

Daniel Dubois demolished Anthony Joshua in their fight last month

PA

The promoter praised Joshua's preparation, stating, "He was in great condition, and he was sparring really well."

Hearn concluded, "In my opinion, there won't be any changes. He's got to put it right, and he can do that himself."

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