Anthony Joshua vs. Joseph Parker 2 has been confirmed for mid-2025, with Parker confidently stating, “This time will be different, I am ready for the championship.”

In a significant development for the boxing world, the much-anticipated rematch between Anthony Joshua and Joseph Parker has been officially confirmed for mid-2025. This announcement has sent ripples through the boxing community, as fans eagerly await a showdown that promises to be both thrilling and consequential. Parker, exuding confidence, has boldly declared, “This time will be different; I am ready for the championship.”

Background of the First Encounter

The initial bout between Joshua and Parker took place on March 31, 2018, at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales. This historic match was notable for being the first time two reigning heavyweight champions faced off in the UK. Anthony Joshua, holding the WBA (Super) and IBF titles, squared off against Joseph Parker, the WBO champion.

The fight was a tactical affair, with both boxers showcasing their skills and resilience. After twelve rounds, Joshua emerged victorious by unanimous decision, adding Parker’s WBO title to his collection. The judges scored the bout 118-110, 118-110, and 119-109 in favor of Joshua. This defeat marked Parker’s first professional loss, but it also highlighted his ability to compete at the highest level.

Joseph Parker’s Resurgence

Since their first encounter, Joseph Parker has embarked on a journey of redemption and growth. Demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination, Parker has achieved significant victories that have propelled him back into the spotlight.

Notable Victories:

• Deontay Wilder: In December 2023, Parker faced former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder. In a display of tactical prowess and endurance, Parker secured a unanimous decision victory, reaffirming his status as a top contender.

• Zhilei Zhang: March 2024 saw Parker take on the formidable Chinese heavyweight Zhilei Zhang. In a closely contested match, Parker emerged victorious via majority decision, earning the WBO interim heavyweight title.

• Martin Bakole: In February 2025, Parker delivered a stunning performance against Martin Bakole, securing a technical knockout in the second round. This victory not only showcased his striking power but also his readiness for championship contention.

These victories have not only enhanced Parker’s professional record but have also solidified his position as a leading figure in the heavyweight division.

Anthony Joshua’s Journey

Anthony Joshua, a former unified heavyweight champion, has experienced a series of highs and lows in recent years. After his loss to Oleksandr Usyk in 2021, Joshua faced a challenging path to reclaim his titles. In a surprising turn of events, Joshua suffered a knockout defeat to Daniel Dubois, which halted his comeback aspirations. Despite calls for a rematch, injuries have delayed his return to the ring, with potential bouts against other top contenders, including Tyson Fury, being speculated.

The Road to the Rematch

The confirmation of the rematch between Joshua and Parker is the culmination of years of anticipation and strategic maneuvering. Both fighters have expressed a keen interest in facing each other again, recognizing the significance of this bout for their respective careers.

Joseph Parker’s Perspective:

Parker has been vocal about his desire to fight Joshua again. Following his victory over Zhilei Zhang, Parker stated, “I want to fight for the championship of the world or unified championship of the world, and we’re very close to getting there.” He acknowledged the possibility of a rematch with Joshua, emphasizing his readiness to face any top contender to achieve his goal of becoming the undisputed champion.

Anthony Joshua’s Perspective:

Joshua, on the other hand, has been navigating his career with caution, especially after his recent setbacks. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, emphasized the importance of ensuring Joshua’s complete physical and mental readiness for his next bout. While a rematch with Daniel Dubois was initially considered, Joshua’s injuries have delayed his return, leading to the scheduling of the rematch with Parker.

Parker’s Bold Declaration

In the lead-up to the rematch, Joseph Parker has exuded confidence and determination. His statement, “This time will be different; I am ready for the championship,” reflects his belief in his growth as a fighter since their first encounter. Parker’s recent performances have demonstrated his improved skills and strategic acumen, making this rematch a highly anticipated event.

Training and Preparation

Both fighters are known for their rigorous training regimens and commitment to excellence. As the rematch approaches, insights into their preparation strategies have garnered attention.

Joseph Parker:

Parker’s recent training camps have been characterized by a holistic approach, balancing intense physical preparation with family support. For his fight against Martin Bakole, Parker chose to have his family present during training, a departure from his previous solitary camps. He stated that having his family nearby provided additional strength and motivation, allowing him to balance rigorous training with cherished family time.

Anthony Joshua:

Joshua’s training approach has evolved over the years, focusing on both physical conditioning and mental fortitude. Following his loss to Daniel Dubois, Joshua has been working diligently to address areas of improvement, aiming to reclaim his status as a dominant force in the heavyweight division. His team has emphasized the importance of a comprehensive strategy to ensure readiness for the rematch with Parker.

Implications for the Heavyweight Division

The rematch between Joshua and Parker holds significant implications for the heavyweight division. The outcome of this fight could determine future title opportunities and set the stage for potential matchups with other top contenders, including Tyson Fury, Oleksandr Usyk, and Daniel Dubois. A victory for Parker could establish him as a leading force in the division, while a win for Joshua could reignite his championship aspirations.

Final Thoughts

As the boxing world prepares for the highly anticipated rematch between Anthony Joshua and Joseph Parker, the excitement continues to build. With both fighters showcasing their growth and determination, this bout is poised to be one of the most electrifying encounters in recent heavyweight history. Whether Parker fulfills his bold declaration or Joshua reclaims his dominance, fans can expect a thrilling spectacle when these two warriors step into the ring once again in mid-2025.