The conversation in the boxing world has now shifted to Anthony Joshua next fight as fans eagerly await confirmation of his return to the ring. After his most recent challenge, speculation is mounting regarding both the date and location of his upcoming bout. Promoter Eddie Hearn has revealed a shortlist of five possible opponents, with some intriguing options that could see Joshua step into the ring in Las Vegas for the first time in his career. However, any potential showdown in Vegas would need to take place before the Super Bowl, adding another layer of urgency to negotiations.
With Joshua keen to stay active and work his way back to the top of the heavyweight division, several names have emerged as potential contenders for his next opponent. The shortlist reportedly includes established fighters as well as rising stars eager to test themselves against the former two-time heavyweight champion.
One of the strongest possibilities is a fight against Deontay Wilder, a long-anticipated matchup that fans have been calling for over the years. However, with Wilder coming off a loss himself, negotiations could prove challenging. Another name in the mix is Filip Hrgović, an undefeated Croatian powerhouse who is currently a top-ranked contender. A bout against Hrgović would not only provide Joshua with a tough challenge but also position him closer to a world title shot.
Other rumored opponents include former champion Joseph Parker, who has been in impressive form recently, and Otto Wallin, who gave Tyson Fury a tough fight in the past. Meanwhile, some reports suggest that Anthony Joshua next fight could be against Zhilei Zhang, a heavy-hitting Chinese contender who has gained recognition with some dominant performances.
The location of Anthony Joshua next fight remains a key discussion point. Traditionally, Joshua has fought in the UK, with London’s O2 Arena and Wembley Stadium serving as iconic venues for his past battles. However, there is growing interest in taking his next fight to the United States, particularly Las Vegas.
Las Vegas has long been a hub for major boxing events, and Joshua’s debut in the city would be a historic moment for his career. The bright lights and global appeal of a Vegas fight could boost his profile even further, but logistical challenges remain. Since the Super Bowl is scheduled for early February, a Las Vegas bout would need to be arranged before then to avoid major scheduling conflicts.
Other potential venues include Saudi Arabia, which has hosted some of the biggest boxing events in recent years. With Joshua’s strong ties to Saudi boxing promotions, a return to the Middle East could be a lucrative and feasible option. Alternatively, Wembley Stadium in London could also be a fitting stage for his return, ensuring that his loyal UK fans can witness his comeback fight in person.
For Joshua, his upcoming fight is about more than just another victory—it's about reclaiming his status as one of the most dominant heavyweights in the world. With Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury set to clash for the undisputed heavyweight crown, Joshua remains focused on positioning himself as the next challenger for the title.
A convincing win in his next fight would put him back in the conversation for a world championship opportunity. However, a loss at this stage of his career could be a significant setback, making the choice of opponent and fight location even more crucial. Eddie Hearn and his team are carefully weighing all options to ensure that Joshua gets the right fight at the right time.
The speculation surrounding Anthony Joshua next fight continues to grow, with fans eagerly awaiting an official announcement. While the shortlist of potential opponents provides exciting possibilities, the choice of venue will also play a major role in shaping the event. Whether Joshua fights in Las Vegas, London, or Saudi Arabia, one thing is certain—his return to the ring will be a must-watch moment in boxing. As the negotiations unfold, all eyes are on Joshua and his team to see what move they will make next in his journey back to the top of the heavyweight division.