Anthony Joshua Surprises by Choosing an Opponent Only from the Top 15 – What Strategy Is Behind This?

After nearly a year away from the boxing world, Anthony Joshua is preparing to step back into the ring—and he’s doing so with a surprising but strategic twist. Rather than easing back with a low-risk tune-up fight, the former unified heavyweight champion has announced that his next opponent will be someone from the top 15 of the heavyweight division.

This decision, revealed by longtime promoter Eddie Hearn, isn’t just about staying busy—it’s a calculated step designed to build momentum for the mega-fights that lie ahead, particularly against names like Tyson Fury in 2026.

Eddie Hearn Confirms Joshua’s Return Timeline

Speaking to Betfred, Eddie Hearn confirmed the timeline fans have been anxiously awaiting:

“He will return in November/December and fight a top 15 guy, hopefully he’ll come back with an impressive win and then move into those Tyson Fury fights in 2026.”

For Joshua, this next bout isn’t simply about getting back in shape—it’s about making a statement. After his disappointing loss to Daniel Dubois in 2024, the British heavyweight is keen to reassert himself in a division filled with hungry contenders.

Why a Top 15 Opponent Makes Sense Now

In the past, fighters returning from a lengthy layoff would typically face a journeyman or fringe contender to shake off the rust. But Joshua isn’t interested in that path. He wants a meaningful fight, one that will:

• Rebuild his reputation

• Improve his world ranking

• Serve as a stepping stone to a blockbuster clash with Tyson Fury or other elite heavyweights

Facing a top 15 opponent guarantees that the bout will carry legitimacy and risk, both essential ingredients if Joshua wants the boxing world to take his comeback seriously.

The Top 15 Heavyweight Options on the Table

So, who are the possible opponents? Here’s a look at some of the top-ranked heavyweights Joshua could face:

• Lawrence Okolie (WBC #1): Fellow Brit and former cruiserweight champion, Okolie’s awkward style could pose a challenge.

• Filip Hrgovic (WBO #2): A hard-hitting Croatian contender with an unbeaten record.

• Efe Ajagba (WBC #3): Known for his devastating power but still somewhat raw.

• Zhilei Zhang (WBO #3): The Chinese powerhouse who shocked the world with his KO of Joe Joyce.

• Frank Sanchez (IBF #4): A slick Cuban boxer who could test Joshua’s patience and technique.

• Jared Anderson (WBO #5): The American prospect who’s building a reputation as the future of the division.

• Martin Bakole, Andy Ruiz Jr., Derek Chisora, and Mahmoud Charr also round out the list of intriguing options.

Interestingly, Deontay Wilder, ranked WBC #12, is also technically in the mix. However, a Wilder fight would be much bigger than a simple comeback bout—it’s more likely reserved for 2026 or beyond.

Avoiding a Stay-Busy Fight: A Power Move or a Gamble?

Joshua’s decision to face a top 15 opponent is undoubtedly a power move, but it’s not without risks. His last fight—a knockout loss to Daniel Dubois—left lingering questions about his punch resistance and mental toughness. Jumping back in against a live opponent increases the stakes significantly.

But this is classic Joshua. He’s never been one to dodge tough fights. Even after defeats, he’s fought back against top opposition: from Wladimir Klitschko to Andy Ruiz Jr., to Oleksandr Usyk and now Dubois.

By choosing another top contender, Joshua is essentially saying, “I’m still at the top level, and I’m ready to prove it.”

A Year Away: Joshua Reflects on His Career

Joshua’s absence from the ring since September 2024 marks the longest layoff of his professional career. But it wasn’t a time wasted. Speaking candidly, he explained:

“I took a year out, first time in about 12 to 13 years as a professional, not even including the amateur stuff… I just thought, let me take some time out, so when I do come back, I come back fully active and ready to go again, and take the division by storm again!”

This time away allowed Joshua to:

• Heal his body

• Reassess his career goals

• Rebuild mentally after years of nonstop competition

It’s a more mature, reflective Joshua—one who understands the value of making “executive decisions” about his next steps, rather than simply going through the motions.

Strategic Timing Ahead of 2026 Mega-Fights

The goal is clear: win convincingly in late 2025, then pursue major fights in 2026. The most anticipated of those is, of course, a long-awaited clash with Tyson Fury. Their rivalry has simmered for years, and with Fury’s own career winding down, 2026 could finally be the right time.

A big win in November or December would position Joshua perfectly for:

• A title eliminator

• A lucrative all-British showdown

• Or a direct shot at the heavyweight crown, depending on how the belts shift hands in the meantime

Potential Styles That Could Trouble AJ

While all of the top 15 contenders pose different challenges, several styles could give Joshua problems:

• Pressure fighters like Zhilei Zhang or Martin Bakole, who would test Joshua’s stamina and inside fighting.

• Power punchers like Efe Ajagba and Jared Anderson, who could exploit any lingering doubts in Joshua’s defense.

• Technical boxers like Frank Sanchez, who could frustrate Joshua in a tactical battle.

But Joshua has always preferred to fight big men with big reputations. The bigger the challenge, the more dialed-in he tends to be.

What About the Wilder Fight?

The heavyweight clash fans still dream of is Anthony Joshua vs. Deontay Wilder. However, with Wilder’s stock currently lower after back-to-back losses, and both fighters rebuilding, this mega-fight makes more sense for 2026.

Facing Wilder now would carry too much risk without the full financial reward. Instead, Joshua is smartly rebuilding his confidence and form first.

Joshua’s Motivation: More Than Just Titles

Beyond reclaiming belts, Joshua’s motivation appears to be legacy-focused. He wants to be remembered as a fighter who:

• Fought the best

• Took on risks

• Left no unfinished business in his era

A big win against a top 15 heavyweight puts him back in conversations about the best active heavyweights, alongside names like Fury, Usyk, and Dubois.

Fan Expectations: High but Cautious

Fans are cautiously optimistic about Joshua’s return. His previous comeback fights after losses (against Ruiz Jr. and after the Usyk defeats) showed he can bounce back. But at 35 years old, the clock is ticking.

Most expect a dominant performance, but also know that heavyweight boxing is unforgiving. One mistake, and a top contender could capitalize.

Final Prediction: Who Will He Choose?

While Joshua’s camp hasn’t revealed the opponent, a safe bet could be on fighters like:

• Martin Bakole: A tough test but winnable, and makes for a UK-friendly bout.

• Zhilei Zhang: A high-profile international clash, big in both China and Europe.

• Efe Ajagba or Frank Sanchez: Dangerous, but would elevate Joshua’s standing if he wins convincingly.

• Or a domestic showdown with Derek Chisora, though that’s less likely given Chisora’s fading prime.

Conclusion: A Bold Step for a New Era

Anthony Joshua’s decision to face a top 15 opponent in his comeback fight is bold, calculated, and reflective of a fighter who still wants to be great. He could have taken the easy route—but greatness never comes easy.

The world will be watching closely in November/December 2025 to see if Joshua can still command the heavyweight spotlight.

If all goes according to plan, 2026 could deliver the fights fans have been waiting for—and Joshua could yet again reign at the top of boxing’s most storied division.