An elbow problem that persisted after Joshua’s defeat against Daniel Dubois in September of last year necessitated surgery. The 35-year-old was sidelined by that, but he has now returned to training.

It’s conceivable that he will fight back again in January or early February. Before going after the greatest names in the division, he plans to obtain a tune-up fight against a world-ranked opponent in the top 15 instead of going straight back to a fight with a top-tier heavyweight.
The ultimate goal, however, is still Tyson Fury, a legendary all-British bout that Joshua has yet to defeat.

“At the moment, my only dream is to face Tyson Fury the next year. That’s the first priority,” Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn told Sky Sports.

“Common reason dictates that the bout must take place in 2026, but Fury’s choices don’t always align with common sense. He must desire to return.

“It is a personal choice.”