Anthony Joshua’s Return Plans Set Out by Eddie Hearn

Promoter Eddie Hearn has officially confirmed a revised timeline for Anthony Joshua’s return to the ring, following a period of physical recovery and personal tragedy. 

Speaking to the media on February 19, 2026, Hearn revealed that the former two time heavyweight champion is now targeting a competitive return in July 2026. 

This update marks a shift from earlier projections that had Joshua returning as early as March, as the fighter continues to prioritize his mental and physical well being before entering a full training camp.

The delay in Joshua’s schedule follows a harrowing car accident in Nigeria during the December holidays, which tragically claimed the lives of two of his close friends and members of his training staff. Joshua, who was briefly hospitalized after the incident, has since been focused on his recovery. 

Hearn emphasized that while Anthony Joshua is eager to get back to the gym, he is not yet physically in a position to sustain a high intensity camp. The focus is just resting and preparing, Hearn noted, adding that a late summer return is the most realistic Possibility at this stage.

This revised plan has significant implications for the heavyweight division, most notably the long anticipated showdown with Tyson Fury. Originally, the all British mega fight was being discussed for August 2026; however, Hearn has confirmed that Joshua will not fight Fury next. 

Instead, the July bout is expected to serve as a high level run out or tune up fight to ensure Joshua is 100% sharp before taking on the biggest risks of his career. The Fury clash is now more likely to be pushed to the end of 2026 or early 2027.

Joshua’s most recent outing was a sixth round knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami on December 19, 2025. While that bout was a massive commercial success, Hearn insists that the next step must involve a more traditional, ranked heavyweight opponent. 

Several options are reportedly being explored across global venues, with potential sites in London, Saudi Arabia, and even West Africa being considered for the July comeback. The goal is to rebuild the momentum Joshua found in late 2025 and position him for a third world title reign.

As the boxing world reacts to these developments, the focus remains on Joshua's resilience. Rival Tyson Fury recently cited Joshua’s tragedy as a turning point that motivated him to come out of his own retirement, highlighting the profound impact the recent months have had on the heavyweight landscape. 

With Hearn and Matchroom Boxing finalizing the July details, fans can expect an official opponent announcement in the coming weeks once Joshua officially checks back into training camp.