Eddie Hearn Expresses Doubt Over Anthony Joshua's Boxing Return
Prominent boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has openly acknowledged that there are no certainties regarding former two-time world champion Anthony Joshua's return to professional boxing. This uncertainty stems from a tragic incident that occurred in late December 2025, which claimed the lives of two of Joshua's close friends.
The Tragic Incident and Its Aftermath
Anthony Joshua, aged 36, was involved in a vehicular accident on December 29, 2025, that resulted in minor injuries for the boxer but proved fatal for his companions, Sina Ghami and Latif 'Latz' Ayodele. Following this devastating event, Joshua retreated from the public eye, focusing on his recovery and personal well-being.
In January 2026, Joshua signaled a tentative step back toward normalcy by returning to training. He shared a video on social media depicting his workout regimen, accompanied by the caption "mental strength therapy." However, this activity does not signify an imminent competitive comeback according to his long-time promoter.
Hearn's Candid Assessment
Eddie Hearn, who has guided Joshua's professional career since his gold medal-winning performance at the 2012 Olympics, provided a sobering perspective in a recent interview with First Round TV. "I don't think there are any guarantees he fights again, but at the same time I expect him to, because it is something that he loves," Hearn stated.
He elaborated on the complex emotional and physical challenges Joshua faces, noting, "And it is something he can carry those guys with him through as well, and it is something he wants to do. From a boxing sense, physically it wasn't easy what he went through either. People probably don't realise the extent of that."
Hearn emphasized that while Joshua has resumed training, he is not yet prepared for a full return to boxing-specific preparation. "He has been training, but he is not ready yet and won't be for a while to return to boxing training," the promoter clarified.
Recent Public Appearance and Career Context
Joshua made a rare public appearance on Saturday, sitting cage-side at the Professional Fighters League (PFL) event in Dubai. This marked one of his few outings since the tragic accident.
His most recent bout took place on December 19, 2025, where he secured a sixth-round stoppage victory over YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul. This win elevated his professional record to 29 victories and four defeats. Following this triumph, Joshua expressed readiness to face his long-standing rival, Tyson Fury, in a highly anticipated showdown.
Impact on Future Plans and Potential Fury Fight
Hearn disclosed that prior to the tragic incident, plans were actively underway for Joshua to fight in March 2026, with a subsequent bout against Tyson Fury on the horizon. "Before this terrible incident, we were geared up to fight in March and then fight Tyson Fury," Hearn revealed. "Obviously, that is not happening now, and I don't know if it will ever happen right now."
Meanwhile, Tyson Fury announced his return from retirement in January 2026, scheduling a fight against Arslanbek Makhmudov in the United Kingdom on April 11, 2026.
Looking Ahead
Despite the current uncertainties, Hearn remains cautiously optimistic about Joshua's gradual reintegration into the sport. "But I think in the next few weeks and months, he may start to return and just turn the dial up a little bit more on training and see where he is at," he projected.
The boxing community now watches with bated breath as Anthony Joshua navigates this profoundly difficult period, balancing personal grief with the potential resumption of a storied athletic career.
