Anthony Joshua, one of the biggest names in modern boxing, has recently revealed that he is planning to make his much-anticipated return to the ring in December 2025. This announcement marks a significant development after a challenging period in his career, marked by injury setbacks and tough losses. His declared comeback timeline could, however, put on hold or even shut the door on a highly anticipated bout with longtime British rival Tyson Fury — a fight that fans and pundits alike have been clamoring to see for years.

Joshua’s return timeline is critical to understanding the current heavyweight landscape and the potential for future blockbuster matchups. With Joshua sidelined since September 2024, when he suffered a tough loss to Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium, fans have been eagerly waiting to see when and how the British heavyweight will return to competition.

The Road Back: Joshua’s Injury and Recovery

Joshua’s fight against Dubois was one of the most talked-about heavyweight bouts of 2024. However, the aftermath was less celebratory for Joshua, as he sustained significant injuries during and after the fight, notably to his elbow, which has now required surgery. This surgery will keep him out of training for at least eight weeks, further delaying his comeback.

Despite these hurdles, Joshua remains confident and determined. In a recent interview with ESPN Mexico, he expressed his intention to return by the end of the year:
“December, I will fight again.”
Joshua emphasized that his priority is regaining full physical health before stepping back into the ring:
“I just want to get my body feeling good and then I’ll fight. It’s a simple job.”

This commitment reflects Joshua’s professional attitude and desire to not only return but to return at his best. His injury recovery and training regime will be pivotal as he prepares to face the top heavyweights once again.

The Impact on the Joshua vs. Fury Super Fight

One of the most anticipated fights in boxing history is the potential showdown between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, often billed as a “once-in-a-generation” clash between two British boxing giants. However, Joshua’s December return plan throws immediate cold water on this matchup happening anytime soon.

Firstly, staging a major stadium fight in the UK during December is logistically challenging due to the cold winter weather. Outdoor stadiums, which both fighters and promoters favor for the spectacle and revenue potential, are less feasible during this time. This makes a UK-based stadium fight unlikely in the near term.

Secondly, Tyson Fury has recently announced his retirement, although rumors persist about a potential return, especially with talk of a trilogy fight against Oleksandr Usyk. If Fury stays retired or takes an extended break, the Joshua fight may not materialize anytime soon.

If the two were to fight, the bout would likely be pushed back to 2026 or shifted to an indoor venue outside the UK, with Saudi Arabia emerging as a popular destination for mega boxing events, given its recent investments and hosting of major fights.

Exploring Alternative Opponents for Joshua

With the Fury fight uncertain and potentially far off, Joshua is reportedly considering other options for his December return. He has named several contenders he might face, including:

Martin Bakole: A rising heavyweight with solid credentials and an exciting fighting style. Bakole could provide a high-profile tune-up for Joshua.

Agit Kabayel: The European heavyweight champion, Kabayel presents a solid challenge with his technical skills and experience.

Deontay Wilder: The former WBC heavyweight champion known for his devastating knockout power. A fight against Wilder would undoubtedly generate massive attention but depends on Wilder’s own fight schedule and results.

Wilder is scheduled for a comeback fight against Tyrell Herndon next month, which will likely determine whether a bout with Joshua is on the table. Joshua’s camp and promoters will carefully weigh the risk and rewards of each opponent as they plan his comeback trajectory.

Joshua has also been targeted by unconventional challengers such as Jake Paul, the YouTube sensation turned boxer, who has called out Joshua for a fight. While not a traditional heavyweight contender, Paul’s growing boxing profile means he can no longer be ignored entirely in the conversation about Joshua’s potential opponents.

Joshua’s Physical Conditioning and Championship Aspirations

Joshua’s focus going forward is not merely about returning but about returning stronger and more prepared than ever. He openly acknowledged that while he was “good” in his last fight, he was not “great,” and that distinction is what separates champions from contenders in the brutal world of heavyweight boxing.

He said,
“To be good is not enough in boxing, if you want to be a world champion you’ve got to be great.”

This mindset is essential for Joshua’s future plans as he seeks to regain his status at the top of the division. His last fight taught him that physical conditioning and mental preparation must be flawless to compete with the best heavyweights in the world.

Joshua also reflected on the toll his body has taken from years of intense training and competition:
“My body has been through the works… I just want to make sure my body is really really good before I get back into the ring.”

He is taking a cautious approach to training and recovery, prioritizing longevity and health over rushing back into the spotlight.

Anthony Joshua’s Ventures Outside Boxing: Investing in Watford Football Club

Beyond the ropes, Anthony Joshua has been making smart moves in the business world. Recently, he revealed his interest in investing in Watford Football Club, a team from his hometown. This venture into sports investment reflects Joshua’s growing business acumen and desire to diversify his portfolio.

He explained:
“As you earn, naturally you want to save, so rather than me spending recklessly I’m trying to invest money into certain asset classes and that was an opportunity that presented itself.”

Joshua’s interest in Watford is not just financial but deeply personal. Having grown up in the area, he is eager to contribute to the club’s success and community impact.

He added,
“If they went back to the Premier League then I’d need to get a shop on Market Street because the traffic that would be coming through Watford would be phenomenal.”

Joshua’s ambition extends beyond boxing, showing that he is thinking long-term about his life after the sport. Investing in Watford allows him to stay connected to his roots while building a business legacy.

The Bigger Picture: Heavyweight Boxing in 2025 and Beyond

Joshua’s comeback plans come at a critical juncture in heavyweight boxing. The division is currently dominated by fighters like Oleksandr Usyk, Tyson Fury (if he returns), and rising stars such as Daniel Dubois and Joseph Parker.

The heavyweight landscape is more competitive than ever, and Joshua will have to prove himself against elite fighters to reclaim his spot at the top. The possibility of a trilogy between Fury and Usyk also reshapes the division’s future, as those two juggernauts battle for supremacy.

Joshua’s return, therefore, is not just about one fight but about positioning himself in this evolving hierarchy. His choice of opponents, training approach, and business decisions will all influence how his career unfolds over the next several years.

Conclusion: Anthony Joshua’s Road Ahead

Anthony Joshua’s announcement of a December 2025 return is a major development for boxing fans worldwide. While it complicates the chance of an immediate showdown with Tyson Fury, it opens new possibilities and challenges for the British heavyweight.

Joshua’s commitment to recovery, improved conditioning, and smart opponent selection will be key factors in his next chapter. Meanwhile, his investment plans, like those involving Watford Football Club, demonstrate that he is preparing for life both in and outside the ring.

As the heavyweight division continues to evolve, all eyes will be on Joshua’s return — to see if he can reclaim his place among boxing’s elite and potentially reignite one of the sport’s most exciting rivalries.