AJ Eyes Retirement in Two Years: Can He Reclaim Heavyweight Glory Before Time Runs Out?
British boxing fans eager for an Anthony Joshua vs. Tyson Fury showdown might be surprised to learn AJ plans retirement within two years.
AJ Plots Short Farewell Tour After Career Resurgence
According to a report from TalkSports, while nearing the twilight of his career at 34, Joshua has experienced a resurgence, winning four consecutive fights in the past year. These victories follow his devastating losses to Oleksandr Usyk in 2021 and 2022, which cost him his heavyweight titles.
“I’ve always said 35,” Joshua revealed on the Jonathan Ross show. “I’m thinking another two years or so if my body holds out.” He elaborated on plans for a smooth transition into business ventures beyond boxing after retirement.
Next Fight on the Horizon: Joshua Awaits Fury-Usyk Winner or Vacant Title Shot
Joshua’s next fight hinges on the outcome of the May 18th undisputed championship clash between Fury and Usyk. He might face the victor or compete for a belt they’d be forced to vacate due to a mandatory challenger obligation.
This obligation likely involves Filip Hrgovic facing either Joshua or Daniel Dubois for the vacant IBF title. If Hrgovic fights Dubois on June 1st, the winner would likely face Joshua later this year.
“Around September is when I’ve been told,” Joshua said regarding his next fight date.
A Storied Career: From Olympic Gold to Heavyweight Ascendancy
Joshua’s boxing journey began with a gold medal at the 2012 Olympics. He turned professional a year later and secured his first world title in 2016. His career has seen him experience both exhilarating highs and crushing defeats.
After a shocking knockout loss to Andy Ruiz in 2019, Joshua avenged the defeat and reclaimed his belts that same year. Victories over Kubrat Pulev in 2020 and recent triumphs have him positioned for another shot at heavyweight glory.
With his most recent win against Francis Ngannou pushing his knockout rate to 89%, talkBOXING host Spencer Oliver believes this version of Joshua could even defeat Usyk.
Will Joshua conquer the heavyweight division once again before his planned retirement? Only time will tell, but his next fight promises to be a crucial step on that path.
