Anthony Joshua and Potential Fights: Who Will Be the Next Opponent for Him to Regain His Reputation?

Few names in modern boxing generate as much buzz and debate as Anthony Joshua. Once the undefeated heavyweight champion with global superstardom, Joshua’s journey over the last few years has been a rollercoaster of dramatic wins, unexpected defeats, and rebuilding efforts. After losing his titles to Oleksandr Usyk, AJ has been on a mission—not just to climb back into title contention, but to reclaim his reputation as one of the sport’s most dominant forces. Now, the question lingers across the boxing world: Who will be Anthony Joshua’s next opponent as he aims to restore his legacy and reassert himself at the top of the heavyweight division?

Anthony Joshua’s Path Since Losing to Usyk

Following his stunning TKO loss to Andy Ruiz Jr. in 2019 and subsequent victory in their rematch, many believed Joshua had righted the ship. But when he faced Usyk in 2021, the cracks were exposed again. Usyk’s technical brilliance and elusive footwork baffled Joshua over 12 rounds, resulting in a unanimous decision loss. The rematch in 2022 ended similarly, further distancing Joshua from the championship scene.

Since then, however, Joshua has made significant changes to his training team and fighting style. He parted ways with longtime coach Robert McCracken, briefly worked with Robert Garcia, and more recently joined forces with Ben Davison—hoping that a fresh approach would reinvigorate his performances. His 2023 victories over Jermaine Franklin and a statement knockout of Robert Helenius proved he still packs a powerful punch, but critics remain skeptical about whether Joshua can handle elite-level competition again.

As 2025 unfolds, there are numerous potential opponents for Anthony Joshua, each bringing different stakes and consequences. Choosing the right one could make or break his shot at redemption.

Deontay Wilder: The Mega Fight That Still Has Appeal

For years, fans clamored for an Anthony Joshua vs. Deontay Wilder showdown. Both men were undefeated champions with terrifying knockout records. But due to promotional politics and timing, the fight never materialized when it would have been biggest.

Now, the landscape has changed. Wilder is coming off a humbling loss to Joseph Parker, and Joshua has been in rebuild mode. But despite both men suffering setbacks, this fight still has fireworks written all over it.

A fight between Joshua and Wilder in 2025 could be a final chance for both men to stay relevant at the highest level. It would be an explosive clash between two of the most powerful punchers in the sport, and the winner would likely earn a direct path to a title eliminator or a final shot at the heavyweight crown.

Beyond the belts, this bout would be massive for legacy. If Joshua defeats Wilder, it silences any remaining doubts about his chin, resilience, and place among the greats of his era.

Zhilei Zhang: The Dangerous Southpaw No One Wants

Another possible opponent who brings both danger and intrigue is Zhilei Zhang. The Chinese heavyweight has emerged as one of the most avoided fighters in the division. Standing 6’6” with deceptive speed and overwhelming strength, Zhang has notched back-to-back wins over Joe Joyce, including a brutal knockout in their rematch.

For Joshua, taking on Zhang would be a huge risk—but also a massive reward. Zhang is currently ranked highly by all major sanctioning bodies and holds the WBO interim title, which could put Joshua one step closer to a mandatory shot at the full championship.

The matchup would also provide an exciting stylistic clash: Joshua’s upright, Olympic-style boxing vs. Zhang’s unorthodox pressure and left-handed power. A win here would earn AJ respect from critics who question his heart and willingness to fight dangerous foes.

Filip Hrgović: The Mandatory Route to a Title Shot

If Joshua wants a more strategic approach to regaining his belts, Filip Hrgović could be the ideal next opponent. The Croatian heavyweight is currently the IBF’s top-ranked contender and could soon be in position to fight for a vacant title if Usyk vacates after his bout with Tyson Fury.

Facing Hrgović would give Joshua the chance to position himself as the IBF mandatory challenger, potentially setting up a title fight without having to go through Usyk or Fury again.

While not the most glamorous name, Hrgović is tough, undefeated, and brings solid amateur credentials. Beating him would not only bolster Joshua’s resume but also re-establish him as a legitimate title contender rather than a fighter trying to live off past glory.

Francis Ngannou: The Crossover Fight with Massive Commercial Appeal

In a more unorthodox direction, Joshua could opt for a blockbuster crossover fight with Francis Ngannou. The former UFC heavyweight champion has already dipped his toes into boxing with a shockingly close fight against Tyson Fury and a battle against Anthony Joshua’s rival, Deontay Wilder.

A Joshua vs. Ngannou fight would be less about rankings and more about massive pay-per-view numbers and global attention. It would pit two of the most physically imposing athletes in combat sports against each other in a spectacle that transcends boxing’s traditional audience.

While purists might criticize the matchup as a gimmick, Joshua could use such a bout as a confidence-builder, and a huge win could set up a more serious title pursuit afterward.

Rematch with Dillian Whyte or Joseph Parker: Settling Old Scores

Another intriguing possibility is a rematch with either Dillian Whyte or Joseph Parker. Joshua has history with both men—he defeated Whyte in a 2015 grudge match and was linked to a Parker rematch in the past.

While neither fighter currently holds a world title, a rematch with Whyte would draw major interest in the UK, especially if Whyte gets back on track after his recent suspension. Similarly, Joseph Parker’s resurgence, especially after beating Wilder, makes a second fight appealing and potentially meaningful in the title picture.

Either matchup would allow Joshua to avenge old grudges or reassert dominance over familiar foes. It would also give fans a more grounded, emotionally charged contest compared to the uncertainty of newer names.

Does Anthony Joshua Still Have the Fire to Reclaim His Crown?

While matchups are crucial, the real question remains: Does Anthony Joshua still have the hunger, belief, and killer instinct needed to climb back to the top?

Joshua has often spoken about the mental challenges of staying motivated, the scrutiny from fans and media, and the weight of expectations as the face of British boxing. His demeanor in recent fights has shifted—more calculated, less aggressive, and sometimes cautious to a fault.

If he’s to beat top-tier opponents again, he’ll need to recapture the ferocity and confidence that once made him unstoppable. Working with new trainers, refining his approach, and staying active will be essential. The heavyweight division is unforgiving, and one misstep could push him out of the elite conversation permanently.

But if Joshua chooses wisely and wins decisively, he could find himself back where he once stood—on top of the world, with the boxing community chanting his name once more.

Conclusion: A Legacy Still Waiting to Be Sealed

Anthony Joshua is not done—not yet. Despite his setbacks, the road ahead is full of opportunity. With possible fights against Deontay Wilder, Zhilei Zhang, Filip Hrgović, Francis Ngannou, or familiar rivals like Whyte and Parker, Joshua’s options are as diverse as they are dangerous.

The next opponent will define not just his record, but his reputation. Will he chase legacy or money? Will he choose risk or redemption? One thing is certain: the world will be watching.

And in boxing, all it takes is one emphatic victory to turn doubt into belief, and silence the critics once and for all.