Overview

• Anthony Joshua is set to make his first ring appearance since a September 2024 loss at a Riyadh Season event in early 2026 following elbow surgery.
• Promoter Eddie Hearn has identified Jake Paul as Joshua’s front-runner opponent and confirmed that real-deal negotiations are underway.
• Tyson Fury remains officially retired despite hinting at a return last July, leaving Paul as the most plausible comeback adversary.
• Eddie Hearn has ruled out Tony Yoka, narrowing Joshua’s shortlist to the crossover star.
• The British Boxing Board of Control has yet to guarantee sanctioning for a professional contest between Joshua and Paul.