Hearn Says Anthony Joshua Not Seeking a Tune-up Fight on Return
2022 didn’t go the way two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua (24-3, 22 KOs) had hoped. After failing to reclaim his titles from Oleksandr Usy (20-0, 13 KOs) in their August rematch, he was presented with another world title opportunity. Unfortunately, talks between him and rival Tyson Fury fell apart. After initially agreeing to fight Fury on short notice, who would’ve put his WBC title on the line, Joshua and promoter Eddie Hearn shifted gears towards a 2023 ring return.
Still a huge draw in the UK, there are a plethora of options for the former champion. Names such as former world title challengers Otto Wallin and Dillian Whyte have been thrown out there, as well as a potentially long-overdue showdown with former WBC champion Deontay Wilder.
NO SOFT TOUCHES WANTED!
While his return isn’t finalized, one thing Joshua is certain of is that he doesn’t want a tune-up fight. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, had the following to say:
“He’s not in a rush to come back; he wants to come back, and he wants to come quickly, but it’s like when you miss an opportunity like Fury, then sort of your mojo goes a little bit.
There are a lot of good fights out there for Anthony, but he’s not really interested in having a shit fight.”
These comments from Hearn shouldn’t come as a surprise. Joshua has consistently fought the best his division has to offer, outside of Wilder and Fury.
We here at 3Kings Boxing will continue to monitor the story and provide updates as they become available.
By: Jerrell Fletcher
