By Gabriel Princewill-
Former two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is gearing up for his next challenge in March, with several formidable opponents in the mix, according to promoter Eddie Hearns
After a triumphant 2023 that saw Joshua claim three victories, including a dominant performance against Otto Wallin in Saudi Arabia, there is much anticipation for the next test Joshua will face this year. as he seeks to build the sort of momentum in his career that will culminate in another world title shot.
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Originally slated to battle Deontay Wilder, plans shifted after Wilder’s unexpected loss to Joseph Parker last month that saw the former Wbc champion schooled and outclassed in their high stake fight in Riyadh.
Now, promoter Eddie Hearn is exploring several compelling options for Joshua’s upcoming bout in Saudi Arabia.
The potential opponents include unbeaten contender Filip Hrgovic, MMA veteran Francis Ngannou, and the imposing Chinese giant Zhilei Zhang. Hearn, speaking to IFL TV, expressed excitement about the diverse range of possibilities.
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“Right now, we have three fights that were in discussions, and they’re all big. And that doesn’t involve Deontay Wilder. Before March, our aim, and we’ve discussed this, is to fight the winner of Fury versus Usyk. That is all we want to do,” stated Hearn.
One of the frontrunners in consideration is Filip Hrgovic, who is in line for a world heavyweight title shot. The potential v
acant IBF belt, post the Fury-Usyk clash, opens the door for a showdown between Joshua and Hrgovic- a very risky fight for the big punching Londoner at this juncture of is career.
Unbeaten Filip Hrgovic is potential opponent for Joshua
However, the heavyweight landscape holds more surprises, with the tantalizing prospect of a clash against MMA sensation Francis Ngannou. The colossal nature of such a fight could captivate both boxing and MMA enthusiasts alike, turning it into a global sporting spectacle.
Another contender in the mix is tough 40 year old Zhilei Zhang.
Zhang’s stature and skills present a unique challenge for Joshua, but his advanced age may put Joshua in a no win situation.
Zhang became the first man to brutally stop previously unbeaten Joe Joyce, repeating the conquest in their September rematch last year.
Either of the three opponents would be tough customers for Joshua, particularly Hrgovic and Zhang. They have the potential to elevate his career further, or to bring it crashing down.
Promoter Frank Warren of Queensberry, overseeing the boxing events in Saudi Arabia, confirmed ongoing efforts to finalize a card for March. in which Joshua would be participating.
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