Joshua–Fury talks gain momentum after Riyadh meeting with Turki Alalshikh

AJ’s return plan

Despite slipping from The Ring’s heavyweight rankings after a year of inactivity dating back to his September 2024 fifth-round stoppage loss to Daniel Dubois Joshua (28–4, 25 KOs) is preparing to fight again before year’s end or early 2026.

“AJ is in a great place,” Hearn said. “When I get that phone call to say, ‘Come see me, I’m ready,’ he’s ready. He’s in camp now to fight… Right now he’s getting himself ready physically to do the hard part of camp, the sparring and that solid 8–10 week period and that’s imminent really. We’d like him to return this year.”

Fury’s status and the Saudi factor

With Oleksandr Usyk holding Ring champion status, Fury (34–2–1, 24 KOs) remains No. 1 in their rankings despite repeatedly stating he’s retired. Hearn remains confident a lucrative Riyadh Season package could tempt Fury back, noting Alalshikh’s track record of delivering cross-promotional mega-events.

Training corner: Ben Davison likely to continue

Asked whether Joshua will retain Ben Davison after three fights together, Hearn indicated the partnership is expected to roll on.

“He has been training with various different people. He’s got a great relationship with Ben and he knows Ben is, No. 1, a very good coach and, No. 2, from a research point of view maybe second to none in the sport.”

What has to happen next

• Matchroom–Riyadh deal for AJ: Hearn finalizes Joshua’s side with Alalshikh.

• Alalshikh–Fury agreement: Saudi negotiators secure Fury’s participation and timetable.

• Joshua tune-up: A late-2025/early-2026 return bout to shake off rust and build toward the summer showdown.

The pathway is clearer than it’s been in years. If Riyadh can close Fury’s side and Joshua returns smoothly. Britain’s long-awaited heavyweight blockbuster finally has a realistic runway to summer 2026.