Anthony Joshua returns in November – but who will be the opponent among these three shocking names?

The countdown to Anthony Joshua’s return to the boxing ring has begun, and it promises to be one of the most high-stakes comebacks in recent heavyweight history. After undergoing elbow surgery and remaining inactive since his devastating knockout win over Francis Ngannou, Joshua is now expected to make his return as late as November 2025, according to promoter Eddie Hearn.

But with talks of fighting elite names like Daniel Dubois, Oleksandr Usyk, or Tyson Fury, many are questioning whether such a dangerous comeback fight is the right move for the former unified heavyweight champion.

Eddie Hearn Confirms: Anthony Joshua Will Fight in 2025

Speaking to BoxingScene, Eddie Hearn revealed the current status of Anthony Joshua’s recovery and comeback timeline.

“He’s had the operation, which went very well, and now he’s just sort of rehabbing it,” Hearn explained.
“I believe about six weeks till he can punch again properly, and that kind of lends itself to a September, October, November fight.”

While the exact opponent remains unconfirmed, Hearn added that the team is closely monitoring the heavyweight landscape, including the outcome of Daniel Dubois vs Oleksandr Usyk, and the unpredictable return timeline of Tyson Fury.

“That gives us a chance to see what happens with Dubois against Usyk. That gives us a chance to see if Mr. Fury will ever return, and maybe something else. But he’s definitely fighting this year and looking forward to it.”

A 14-Month Layoff and a Surgical Setback

While Joshua’s resilience is unquestionable, his upcoming return will mark over 14 months of inactivity—a significant layoff in modern boxing, especially at the elite level.

Additionally, recovering from elbow surgery is no minor hurdle for a fighter whose bread and butter is explosive punching power and crisp combinations. It will take time for Joshua to regain full mobility, rhythm, and punching confidence, particularly if he’s immediately thrown in against one of the division’s top names.

The Potential Opponents: High Risk, High Reward

Daniel Dubois

Dubois has reinvented himself in recent months. After stunning the boxing world with a gutsy performance against Jarrell Miller and a razor-close decision over Filip Hrgovic, Daniel Dubois has emerged as a legitimate title contender.

A potential showdown between Dubois and Joshua would be a massive domestic fight—two power punchers, both seeking redemption and respect. However, Dubois’ recent surge in confidence and form makes him a dangerous test for someone returning from surgery and a long layoff.

Oleksandr Usyk

A third fight with Usyk would make sense from a legacy standpoint. Joshua lost both previous encounters via unanimous and split decision, but a trilogy fight would offer a chance for redemption.

However, Usyk has looked better with each passing fight, recently unifying the division against Tyson Fury. If AJ’s first fight back is against arguably the most technical boxer in the division, the risks could outweigh the reward, particularly if he isn’t back to 100%.

Tyson Fury

While the Joshua vs Fury superfight has been teased for years, it has never materialized. But if Fury returns after his loss to Usyk and a rematch falls through, this long-awaited British clash might finally become a reality.

Yet Fury, with his size, reach, and awkward movement, presents a stylistic nightmare for anyone—especially someone coming off elbow surgery and a lengthy layoff. If Joshua steps into a ring with Fury in November, it could be the biggest—and most dangerous—gamble of his career.

Why This Comeback Matters More Than Ever

This isn’t just another return; it could be Anthony Joshua’s last real chance to reclaim heavyweight glory. At 35, Joshua still has time, but the window is closing. In a division where youth is rising (Jared Anderson, Arslanbek Makhmudov) and veterans are still holding strong (Usyk, Fury), Joshua must prove he belongs at the very top once more.

“It’s about legacy now,” Joshua said earlier this year. “I’ve done the money fights. I’ve held the belts. What’s left is to write my final chapter the way I want to.”

Can Joshua Regain Peak Form After Surgery?

Elbow injuries can be devastating to punchers. Whether it’s tendinitis, ligament tears, or bone spurs, the elbow is crucial for punch speed, accuracy, and power. Although Hearn has assured that the surgery was successful and rehab is on track, questions remain:

• Will Joshua’s right hand still carry the same devastating force?

• Will he be able to throw fluid combinations without hesitation?

• Can he withstand the demands of a 12-round war?

These are the unknowns heading into what could be a make-or-break fight in November.

What AJ’s Camp is Focusing On

Sources close to Joshua’s camp say the focus right now is on mobility and conditioning, not punching. His strength and conditioning coach, Jamie Reynolds, is reportedly guiding AJ through low-impact functional training, yoga, and advanced physical therapy to speed up elbow recovery while maintaining cardiovascular fitness.

Once punching resumes in six weeks, Joshua is expected to engage in high-intensity sparring, especially with taller, aggressive partners if Fury or Dubois is the target.

How Fans and Pundits Are Reacting

Reactions from the boxing world have been mixed. Some see this as a brave, warrior-like return that could restore Joshua’s status as one of the sport’s true elite. Others think it’s too soon, too risky, and perhaps too much to expect from a fighter coming off surgery and inactivity.

Former world champion Carl Froch warned:

“AJ needs a tune-up. Going straight in with Usyk or Fury is madness after elbow surgery. I hope he knows what he’s doing.”

Meanwhile, boxing journalist Gareth A. Davies was more optimistic:

“Anthony Joshua is at his best when he’s challenged. If he fights smart and keeps his jab active, he can still beat any heavyweight out there.”

No Tune-Up? A Bold Strategy

What makes this comeback even more fascinating is the apparent lack of a tune-up fight. Instead of taking on a fringe contender to shake off rust, Joshua and his team seem willing to dive straight back into shark-infested waters.

It’s a bold move that signals confidence—but also desperation to re-enter the title conversation before 2026.

AJ’s Legacy Still in the Making

With a record of 27-3 (24 KOs), Anthony Joshua’s resume still shines. Victories over Wladimir Klitschko, Joseph Parker, Dillian Whyte, and Andy Ruiz Jr. prove he’s fought and beaten top-tier competition.

But to secure his place among heavyweight legends, he needs one final run, one defining win in the post-Usyk era. That journey begins this November—and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Conclusion: All Eyes on November

As Anthony Joshua recovers from elbow surgery and begins his long-awaited return to the ring, the boxing world watches with bated breath. Facing the likes of Dubois, Usyk, or Fury after a 14-month layoff and medical setback is no small feat—but if anyone can pull it off, it’s AJ.

Whether it’s a roaring comeback or the last stand of a fallen king, one thing is certain: November 2025 could define Anthony Joshua’s entire career.