Matchroom Boxing CEO Eddie Hearn has suggested that former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua may be nearing the end of his professional boxing career, Saturday PUNCH reports.
Speaking to BoxNation, Hearn expressed doubt about Joshua’s long-term future in the sport, stating, “I don’t think he has four or five more years in him, but who knows?”
The promoter indicated that Joshua, who turns 35 in October, might only have “three, four, five, or six more” fights left before hanging his gloves.
Joshua is set to face Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium on September 21, in a title fight to be broadcast live on TNT Sports Box Office. The bout comes after his knockout victory over Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia.
READ MORE:Andy Ruiz Jr planning to fight former rival next if he beats Jarrell Miller – but not Anthony Joshua
Hearn emphasised Joshua’s willingness to take on any opponent, saying, “AJ would fight anybody. He would be happy to fight Ruiz again. He’s not going to be around forever.”
Despite hinting at retirement, Hearn also outlined ambitious plans for Joshua’s future, including a potential undisputed title shot against the winner of the Tyson Fury-Oleksandr Usyk rematch scheduled for December 2 in Riyadh.
“Part of me would like to see AJ beat Dubois and then fight the winner, Usyk-Fury, twice. If you won those, imagine winning those and then calling it. That would be unbelievable,” Hearn added.
Hearn emphasised Joshua’s willingness to take on any opponent, saying, “AJ would fight anybody. He would be happy to fight Ruiz again. He’s not going to be around forever.”
UPDATE:Delicious Orie exclusive: The ABBA-loving boxing star following in Anthony Joshua’s footsteps
Despite hinting at retirement, Hearn also outlined ambitious plans for Joshua’s future, including a potential undisputed title shot against the winner of the Tyson Fury-Oleksandr Usyk rematch scheduled for December 2 in Riyadh.
“Part of me would like to see AJ beat Dubois and then fight the winner, Usyk-Fury, twice. If you won those, imagine winning those and then calling it. That would be unbelievable,” Hearn added.
