Three Potential Next Opponents for Anthony Joshua

Anthony Joshua (26-3, 23 KOs) scored a brutal seventh-round stoppage victory over Robert Helenius (32-5, 21 KOs) at London‘s 02 Arena on August 12. Many who predicted AJ would need an early statement stoppage win were left disappointed as AJ struggled to close the distance against Helenius, who used his jab well. Joshua used his jab effectively but couldn’t close the gap quickly enough to land many effective follow-ups.

The Seventh Round began with both fighters trying to set traps for their opponent before AJ landed a concussive right hand to end the fight in an emphatic fashion. After the victory, attention turned to what’s next for AJ.

Three Potential Opponents for Anthony Joshua

All paths lead to @anthonyjoshua vs @BronzeBomber 🔥 #JoshuaHelenius pic.twitter.com/UrTW0yJlzd

— Matchroom Boxing (@MatchroomBoxing) August 13, 2023

Anthony Joshua vs. Deontay Wilder

Joshua against Deontay Wilder (43-2-1, 42 KOs), seems the most likely next opponent for AJ, with Eddie Hearn saying straight after the fight. “It’s on to Deontay Wilder in January. Prince Khalid and Skills Challenge are here tonight. We hope to close that deal in the next couple of days.” There is no doubt a fight between Wilder and the Brit would be a box office smash, with both still keen to reach the summit of the heavyweight division. 

Also Read: 5 Underrated Heavyweights to Watch Out for in 2023

Wilder possesses explosive power, as proven by knocking down Tyson Fury during their epic trilogy. AJs career has stalled somewhat following the defeats to Oleksandr Usyk, and despite the slow start against Helenius, Joshua will be encouraged by his devasting knockout of the Finnish fighter. A fight between Wilder and Joshua would be explosive for however long it lasts. 

Hear Dan Rafael discussing Joshua’s future with T.J. Rives on the newest “Fight Freaks Unite Recap” podcast by clicking play below,

Tyson Fury

Tyson Fury (33-0-1, 24 KOs) against Joshua has arguably been the contest we have all craved for the last few years. It would be a travesty if we don’t see this fight made. There is no love lost between these two, which would make the build-up one of the most entertaining ever. It feels Joshua needs some more time with new trainer Derrick James before he takes on “The Gypsy King.” Fury would undoubtedly start as the favourite, with his superior footwork and boxing ability.

Also Read: 5 Most Memorable Anthony Joshua Fights

With more time under the tutelage of James, we would seemingly see AJ cause Fury some problems. If Joshua beats Wilder, surely the Fury fight has to happen.

The Winner of Zhilei Zhang vs. Joe Joyce

Zhilei Zhang defeated Joe Joyce in their first encounter, which saw Joyce immediately enforce the rematch. Their second contest is set to take place on Saturday, September 23. Zhang (25-1-1) could not miss with his straight left. It was accurate and solid throughout, eventually leading to the stoppage of Joyce (15-1). Whoever wins the rematch would be a viable opponent for Joshua if a fight cannot be made with Wilder or Fury. Both Joyce and Zhang would seemingly give Joshua plenty to think about.