Why Anthony Joshua Set For Ring Return After Difficult Months, Says Eddie Hearn
Joshua Preparing for Ring Return
Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is preparing to return to the boxing ring as he begins a fresh bid for a third world title, according to his promoter Eddie Hearn.
Hearn said the British-Nigerian fighter is now “physically and mentally ready” to resume full training after a difficult period marked by personal tragedy.
The promoter also expressed optimism that Joshua could feature in a high-profile bout later this year. One potential opponent is fellow British heavyweight Tyson Fury, widely known as “The Gypsy King.”
Return to His Roots
Joshua, a gold medallist at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, has recently returned to training at his former amateur gym in Finchley.
The gym holds special significance for the former champion, as it was where he began his boxing career.
Tragedy in Nigeria
His planned comeback follows a traumatic road accident near Sagamu in Ogun State, Nigeria, about three months ago.
The crash claimed the lives of two of his close friends, Kevin Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami. Joshua sustained minor injuries but was left dealing with the emotional aftermath of the tragedy.
Promoter Confident of Comeback
Hearn acknowledged the psychological toll of the incident but believes returning to the gym could help Joshua move forward.
“We’re very close to returning to training camp,” Hearn told iFL TV.
“I feel like AJ is physically and perhaps mentally ready to throw himself back into that environment, and it’s exciting.”
Focus on Future Title Shot
Hearn added that the emotional scars from the accident may remain, but Joshua remains determined to continue his boxing career.
“For everything that he’s been through and all the pain, I don’t think that will leave,” Hearn said.
“But he has a career and a job to do, and he wants to keep doing it. I’m excited to see him back.”
Joshua, a former two-time unified heavyweight champion, is widely expected to return to the ring later this year as he aims to re-enter the world title picture.
