Anthony Joshua’s highly anticipated return to the boxing ring has been delayed, with promoter Eddie Hearn confirming that the former world champion is unlikely to fight again until February 2026.

According to ESPN, Hearn ruled out the possibility of Joshua stepping back into the ring in 2025, despite earlier hopes for a late-year comeback.

The delay marks a major setback for the Nigerian-born heavyweight, who has not fought since his devastating defeat to Daniel Dubois in September 2024.

“Right now, the more likely scenario is a February return,” Hearn told ESPN.

“He’s back in full training camp now, but to go in December would be a very fast turnaround. I don’t completely rule it out, but if that date’s in December, he’d need to know very soon.”

If the timeline holds, 2025 will be the first calendar year in Joshua’s professional career without a single fight.

Speculation has grown that Joshua’s comeback could be staged in Africa, with Ghana and Nigeria being considered as potential host nations for what could be a major event on the continent.

“In an ideal world, he would come back on a big card as a co-main event,” Hearn added.

“But with his superstar status, that’s not always easy. It would be nice for him to just have that run-out fight, wrap his hands, get in the ring, and find his rhythm again.”

Anthony Joshua’s planned return in early 2026 will mark the start of another chapter in his career as he looks to rebuild momentum and reclaim his place among the world’s elite heavyweights. (BusinessDay)