By Felix Jesus Mendoza
Planning the calendar Anthony Joshua for this year has generated a new scenario in the heavyweight division. The Watford boxer aims return to the ring in July to arrive in optimal conditions for a possible clash against Tyson Fury.
This strategy seeks to recover the rhythm of competition after his recent activity before media figures outside the traditional boxing circuit.
Subscribe to DAZN here and don’t miss the best of BOXING
Despite Tyson Fury has tried to force an immediate signing for a direct confrontation, Anthony Joshua maintains its position of carrying out a previous preparation combat.
The intention of the British team is secure a victory in the summer before completing the long-awaited duel against the “Gypsy King” at the end of the year. Given this decision, various names have emerged as possible opponents for the July commitment.
The challenge launched by Arslanbek Makhmudov
One of the candidates who has taken The initiative to face Anthony Joshua is the Russian boxer Arslanbek Makhmudov. Through a publication on his official Instagram account, the fighter nicknamed “The Lion” shared a promotional poster of a hypothetical confrontation.
This movement arises after the previous contacts that both teams maintained during the last quarter of last year.
“Hey Joshua, what’s up, man? I heard you’re looking for an opportunity to fight in November in Riyadh. Listen, I hope you don’t forget the words you told me. Man’s words. I’ll wait for you, brother. Let me know.”expressed the Russian in a video addressed to Anthony Joshua according to his Instagram profile.
Physical profile and combat relevance
Makhmudov’s option is attractive for the environment of Anthony Joshua due to the physical characteristics of the Russian boxer. Standing at around 1.98 meters tall, Makhmudov offers similar reach and volume to Joshua. would find in a fight against Fury. This physical similarity would allow the British to adjust their distance and combat strategy against a large rival.
At the moment, Anthony Joshua analyzes his options after beating Jake Paul last December. The need for a top rival in professional boxing is a priority to silence criticism after his loss to Daniel Dubois in 2024.
The official announcement of the opponent for the month of July is expected in the coming weeks, while the management team evaluates the economic and sporting proposal of the Russian boxer.
Keep reading:
- Sugar Ray Leonard withdraws from the debate and gives his place to a historic
- Canelo Álvarez acknowledged the mistakes he made in his loss to Crawford
- Manny Pacquiao reflected on his loss against Yordenis Ugas and what it cost him at that moment
