Anthony Joshua’s next move: What’s next after the apology?

Joshua has returned to training after the accident and is working on his physical recovery with his team, a process his promoter says will dictate his next fight.

While no official date or opponent has been confirmed, Eddie Hearn has emphasised that the decision on when he returns will be Joshua’s own once he is fully ready physically, mentally and emotionally.

The delay means expectations of an immediate early 2026 return remain cautious, but the groundwork for a comeback is underway.

There are signs that Joshua will be back in the ring in 2026. Promoter discussions and industry speculation suggest a target return early in the year, potentially with a tune-up fight against a top-20 ranked heavyweight before pursuing legacy-defining bouts.

Potential opponents and legacy-defining fights on the horizon

One of the most talked-about possible paths for Joshua involves a blockbuster clash with Tyson Fury, a British heavyweight rivalry fans have long wanted to see.

Plans for a Fury fight in 2026 have been discussed by some boxing insiders, with the summer months seen as a likely window if both men are active and in peak condition. This “mega fight” could serve as the centerpiece of Joshua’s late-career arc as he tries to cement his legacy.

Other names have been floated as well, including rematches with familiar foes or high-profile bouts against marquee heavyweights who can deliver compelling matchups. It is also possible that Joshua takes a strategic tune-up bout against a credible contender to sharpen his form before aiming at titanic clashes.

Is 2026 Anthony Joshua’s last year in boxing?

There is growing speculation that 2026 could be Joshua’s final year inside the ring. Long-time promoter Eddie Hearn has hinted that this year could represent the last chapter of his career, urging careful selection of fights that contribute meaningfully to both his legacy and final record.

While nothing has been confirmed, the narrative of a farewell tour culminating in one or two major late-career fights continues to build.

Joshua’s career has spanned world titles, crossover spectacles, and global attention, and how he chooses to finish it will be a defining element of his boxing story.

Whether he opts for a high-stakes showdown with a fellow heavyweight great, a strategic comeback bout, or a mix of both, clarification on his next move is expected once he has had the time he needs to heal and prepare.