Anthony Joshua’s Next Fight: Three Potential Opponents as Eddie Hearn Provides Update
Anthony Joshua is set to make his return to the ring on September 21 at Wembley Stadium, but his opponent has yet to be confirmed. Matchroom Boxing chief Eddie Hearn has named three potential contenders: Daniel Dubois, Zhilei Zhang, and Joseph Parker.
Hearn clarified the situation in an interview with iFL TV, stating, “Firstly, there is nothing agreed or confirmed for AJ in September. His Excellency [Turki Alalshikh] would like AJ to headline at Wembley. Obviously, it would be incredible for us, for Riyadh Season, and for British boxing. Who the opponent will be is undecided. You’ve got Zhilei Zhang, which is a great fight. You’ve got Daniel Dubois, now the IBF interim heavyweight champion, and you’ve got Joseph Parker who is on a great run.”
Potential Opponents
1. **Daniel Dubois:**
Dubois is considered the frontrunner. He is the IBF interim heavyweight champion and could bring significant attention to the fight. His recent career-best win over Filip Hrgovic has positioned him as a strong contender. If the IBF strips Oleksandr Usyk as expected, Dubois would be promoted to full IBF champion, offering Joshua a chance to become a three-time heavyweight world champion.
2. Zhilei Zhang
Zhang is another strong option. He recently scored a KO win over Deontay Wilder, propelling him back to the heavyweight top tier. Joshua has a history with Zhang, having defeated him in the amateurs during the 2012 Olympic quarter-finals. Zhang’s rising profile makes him an appealing opponent, though his promoter Frank Warren has hinted at plans for a homecoming fight in China next.
3. Joseph Parker
Parker is also in the mix for a rematch. Joshua previously defeated Parker via unanimous decision in 2018 to unify the WBA ‘super’, IBF, and WBO world heavyweight titles. Parker’s recent wins over Wilder and Zhang have significantly raised his stock, making him a credible challenger.
Joshua’s decision will be influenced by several factors, including ticket sales and the potential for title contention. Dubois, being British, is likely to draw a significant crowd in London and provides a fresh matchup for Joshua.
As fans eagerly await the announcement, Joshua’s team is carefully considering the best option to ensure a thrilling bout at Wembley Stadium. The September fight promises to be a major event, regardless of who steps into the ring to face AJ.
