Anthony Joshua vs Deontay Wilder is a Must For Both Careers
There seems to be a universal sentiment in the boxing community that the future of Anthony “AJ” Joshua (28-4, 25 KOs) is in serious jeopardy. The only thing that could salvage things is a matchup against another fighter whose boxing career is also on life support: Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder (43-4-1, 42 KOs).
In front of a record crowd at the Wembley Arena in London, England, Joshua was knocked out in five rounds by the reigning IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois. Predicting that he would play the role of a king slayer, the IBF champion did that emphatically. AJ got outclassed and overpowered as Dubois cut through him like a hot knife through butter.
Afterward, Joshua said he plans to continue and hinted he wants an immediate rematch with the IBF champion. However, if they were to fight again, Joshua would have little more than a puncher’s chance of gaining revenge. After impressive back-to-back stoppage wins over Otto Wallin in December 2023 and Francis Ngannou in March 2024, AJ looked like a shell of the fighter who became a two-time unified champion.
As for The Bronze Bomber, he’s on a two-fight losing streak. In his previous fight, Wilder was stopped in five by Zhilei Zhang on the undercard of Joshua versus Ngannou.
WHAT WOULD BE AT STAKE?
Here’s the reality. For Joshua and Wilder to remain viable in the division, they have little other options than to face one another. Who in their right mind believes that AJ and Wilder are currently among the division’s elite?
Despite their recent form, if they fought in 2025, it would still be marketable. The networks would not turn it down, especially if it occurred in Joshua’s home country of England. They are still big names who draw big crowds and make big money.
Both fighters can punch but are also hittable and can be hurt. That would spell drama throughout. It’s highly possible the ending would be someone getting knocked out.
At one time, a fight between Joshua and Wilder would have been the biggest fight in the sport. Unfortunately, egos and behind-the-scenes workings prevented it from happening when both were world champions. Now, it would be a battle with the loser likely headed towards retirement.
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