Anthony Joshua Will Dominate the Heavyweight Division with a 97.67% KO Rate in Tyson Fury’s Absence?

With Tyson Fury once again teasing retirement, the long-hyped Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury showdown appears to be hanging by a thread. While fans had hoped 2025 would finally deliver the blockbuster all-British heavyweight clash, reality suggests otherwise. Anthony Joshua, now 35, must seriously consider his alternatives—especially after a recent knockout loss to Daniel Dubois.

But one thing is certain: Anthony Joshua is far from done. With a legacy already cemented and marketability still high, there are several intriguing paths left for AJ if Fury decides not to return. Chief among those options is a long-overdue clash with Deontay Wilder, a fight that could reignite the heavyweight division.

Joshua’s Resume Still Holds Weight

Despite recent setbacks, Anthony Joshua boasts one of the most impressive resumes in modern heavyweight boxing. His victories over:

• Wladimir Klitschko

• Dillian Whyte

• Joseph Parker

• Andy Ruiz Jr. (rematch)

• Francis Ngannou

have solidified his position among boxing’s elite. Joshua may no longer be undefeated or a reigning world champion, but he remains a household name and a huge box office draw.

In his most recent outing, however, Joshua suffered a brutal KO loss at the hands of Daniel Dubois in September 2024. It was a damaging blow, both physically and symbolically, as it raised serious questions about his future in the sport.

But in boxing, comebacks are a tradition. And Anthony Joshua, with his pedigree and fanbase, still has plenty of options to revive his career.

If Not Tyson Fury, Then Who?

The heavyweight landscape is still stacked with talent. If the Tyson Fury fight continues to elude him, Anthony Joshua can—and should—consider several high-profile opponents.

Let’s break down the most logical options:

Deontay Wilder: The Rivalry That Never Was

For years, fans have clamored for an Anthony Joshua vs Deontay Wilder fight. Between 2017 and 2019, both men held major world titles and seemed destined to clash. Negotiations never bore fruit, and the fight was ultimately shelved amid blame games and shifting schedules.

But the fight still holds massive appeal.

Wilder, despite back-to-back losses to Tyson Fury, remains one of the most dangerous punchers in boxing history. His knockout power is undeniable, and his willingness to fight anyone, anywhere, makes him a perfect adversary for AJ.

From a stylistic standpoint, this is a fan’s dream: Joshua’s technical boxing and calculated aggression vs Wilder’s raw power and unpredictability.

If the Fury vs Joshua fight doesn’t happen, this bout is arguably the next biggest spectacle in the heavyweight division—and both fighters need it. It’s now or never for this long-delayed showdown.

Joseph Parker Rematch: Unfinished Business

Anthony Joshua defeated Joseph Parker in March 2018 via unanimous decision to unify titles. At the time, the fight was billed as a unification bout between two unbeaten champions. While Joshua walked away with the win, Parker’s durability and boxing acumen earned him respect.

Fast forward to 2025, and Parker is in a career resurgence. He holds the WBO interim heavyweight title and is the mandatory challenger to the winner of Oleksandr Usyk vs Daniel Dubois II.

Parker has also expressed interest in staying busy and even called for a third fight with Derek Chisora. However, a rematch with Anthony Joshua would be far more meaningful—and profitable.

If Joshua wants a credible path back to a title shot, beating a resurgent Parker could put him right back in the conversation.

Agit Kabayel: High-Risk, Low-Reward?

Another name that has surfaced is Agit Kabayel, an undefeated German heavyweight who recently made headlines by stopping Frank Sanchez.

Kabayel is a dangerous southpaw with a fan-friendly style and strong fundamentals. He’s not yet a household name, but he’s quickly rising through the ranks.

For Joshua, a fight with Kabayel poses a high-risk, low-reward scenario. A loss would be disastrous, potentially spelling the end of his time at the top. Even a win wouldn’t do much for his profile compared to victories over more recognizable opponents.

While the fight would appeal to purists, it may not make sense for Joshua from a strategic standpoint.

The Legacy Factor: What Does Anthony Joshua Have Left to Prove?

Anthony Joshua has already achieved more than most heavyweights ever will:

• Olympic Gold Medalist (2012)

• Two-time unified heavyweight champion

• Fought and defeated multiple top-10 opponents

• Sold out stadiums and headlined pay-per-views across the world

And yet, there’s a lingering sense that his legacy is incomplete without facing Tyson Fury or Deontay Wilder.

A win over either man would significantly elevate his place in heavyweight history. A loss, while damaging, wouldn’t erase his accomplishments but would instead close the chapter on an era where these three giants ruled the division.

Joshua must now choose: go all-in on a final run toward greatness or become a gatekeeper for the next generation.

Can Joshua Rebuild After the Dubois Knockout?

The knockout loss to Daniel Dubois was a brutal reminder that the heavyweight division is unforgiving. Dubois, once seen as a prospect who couldn’t win the big one, exploded into relevance by finishing Joshua emphatically.

How Joshua responds will determine the remainder of his career.

He has previously bounced back from defeat. After his shocking loss to Andy Ruiz Jr. in 2019, he returned with a disciplined performance in the rematch. But that was a younger, fresher Joshua.

At 35, after multiple wars and mounting physical wear, the comeback trail will be steeper. However, few athletes are as mentally disciplined as Joshua. His training ethics, professionalism, and fighting pride remain top-tier.

Business Still Booms for AJ

Regardless of recent losses, Anthony Joshua is still one of the most marketable fighters on the planet. He draws massive crowds, sells pay-per-views, and commands international attention.

Promoters know that pairing Joshua with a recognizable name—even in a comeback fight—still guarantees financial success. That’s why a fight with Deontay Wilder, Dillian Whyte (III), or even a Francis Ngannou rematch could be on the table.

The financial viability of these matchups will likely influence the direction of AJ’s comeback campaign.

The Clock Is Ticking

Time is not on Anthony Joshua’s side. At 35, he’s nearing the end of his prime—if not already past it. Every fight from this point on could be career-defining or career-ending.

While the Tyson Fury dream fight may still happen, Joshua can’t wait forever. If Fury truly remains retired, Joshua needs to pivot—fast.

Fighting Deontay Wilder or Joseph Parker again offers the best mix of risk, reward, and legacy-building. A strategic rebuild against a lesser-known name like Kabayel might work too, but only if it leads to a bigger fight down the line.

Conclusion: Joshua Still Has a Chapter to Write

Anthony Joshua’s story is not finished. While the knockout loss to Daniel Dubois may have pushed him off the path to immediate title contention, the road back is not closed.

With Tyson Fury’s status uncertain, Joshua must now forge his own route forward. Whether it’s a mega-fight with Deontay Wilder, a redemption bout with Joseph Parker, or a strategic rebuild with a ranked contender, the options are plentiful.

One thing’s for sure: Anthony Joshua remains one of the biggest names in boxing, and fans around the world are eager to see what he does next. The question is no longer if he’ll return—but who will be brave enough to step in with him.