Daniel Dubois is still the top contender for Anthony Joshua’s next fight, according to promoter Eddie Hearn. Despite considering five potential opponents for the British-Nigerian heavyweight, Hearn revealed that Dubois remains the preferred choice.
“Daniel Dubois still (is the frontrunner). In an ideal world, he will fight Fury, if not Dubois,” Hearn told talkSPORT, outlining the options for Joshua’s return to the ring.
Joshua, 35, has been inactive since his defeat to Dubois in November, which halted his bid to become a three-time world heavyweight champion. With Tyson Fury announcing his retirement in January, Joshua’s team is exploring alternative opponents.
Hearn disclosed that other potential opponents include Joseph Parker, Agit Kabayel, Deontay Wilder, and Martin Bakole. However, Joshua had previously declined an immediate rematch with Dubois, citing injuries and insufficient preparation time.
Former British boxer Amir Khan believes Joshua made the right decision, saying, “I don’t think he should have taken that re-match. It’s the best choice he’s made.” Khan added that Joshua would eventually need to confront Dubois again, stating, “I think he made the right choice by not taking it now, but in the future, it’s still a fight.”
The potential opponents have been active in the boxing scene, with Parker defeating Bakole in one round and Kabayel claiming the WBC interim title by beating Zhilei Zhang. Wilder, despite coming off consecutive losses, is rumored to be plotting a comeback.