Promoter reveals why Anthony Joshua would turn down fight with Moses Itauma next

Former two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is expected to return to the ring at the beginning of 2026. However, boxing fans should not expect a matchup with rising star Moses Itauma any time soon. Despite the excitement surrounding the young heavyweight’s career, Joshua’s camp has reportedly deemed a fight with Itauma as too risky.

With Joshua yet to fight since his knockout loss to Daniel Dubois, speculation about his next opponent has been rampant. Early plans for a bout with Jake Paul fell through, as the Ohio-based fighter opted to face Gervonta Davis in November instead. Meanwhile, Joshua is also passing on a potential clash with his compatriot Moses Itauma, a 20-year-old heavyweight sensation making waves in the boxing world.

Moses Itauma: The Dangerous Rising Star

Moses Itauma, Slovakian-born and unbeaten in his career so far, has turned heads in the heavyweight division with an impressive streak. Earlier this summer, he scored a devastating first-round knockout over common opponent Dillian Whyte, marking his thirteenth consecutive win.

Itauma has been linked with a number of potential opponents next, including former champions Oleksandr Usyk and rising contender Justis Huni. However, despite the hype surrounding the young fighter, Joshua is not expected to face him in the immediate future.

Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter and head of Matchroom Boxing, confirmed that a fight between Joshua and Itauma is considered too dangerous. Speaking to Sky Sports, Hearn explained:

“I don’t really look at the Moses (Itauma) fight and think that’s a fight for AJ. There are many reasons for that. One, what do you gain out of it? Moses is a very good fighter. If you win, you’ve beaten up a 20-year-old. If you lose, you’ve lost to a 20-year-old and your career’s over. It’s a dangerous fight. I rate Moses very highly.”

Anthony Joshua’s Cautious Comeback Strategy

Joshua’s career has been managed carefully since his defeat to Dubois, and Hearn is determined to protect the Olympic star’s legacy while plotting a return to the top. While fans have been clamoring for exciting matchups, including a clash with Moses Itauma, Joshua’s team is focused on long-term career strategy rather than immediate risks.

The decision to avoid a fight with Itauma reflects Joshua’s cautious approach, emphasizing experience, calculated risk, and career longevity. While Joshua remains one of the most recognizable names in heavyweight boxing, the promoter’s cautious strategy suggests that only a carefully selected opponent will feature in his 2026 comeback.

Deontay Wilder Eyes Francis Ngannou Showdown

Meanwhile, former undisputed WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder, long associated with potential matchups against Joshua, is charting his own course for a 2026 return. Wilder, famed for his knockout power, is prioritizing a showdown with former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou instead of pursuing a fight with Joshua.

Speaking to Ariel Helwani, Wilder said:

“Francis (Ngannou), let’s get it on, baby. If you’re serious about what you’re saying — for I am serious about what I’m saying. Let’s get it on once and for all. Your power against my power. Let’s test it out, baby. If you’re down, I’m down. We can go to the motherland, too, baby. Africa! Let’s go.”

This development underscores how heavyweight boxing in 2026 is shaping up to be unpredictable and competitive, with multiple stars seeking to assert dominance in the division.

The Appeal of Moses Itauma

Despite Joshua passing on the fight, Moses Itauma remains one of the most exciting prospects in the heavyweight division. His combination of youth, speed, and knockout power has made him a standout figure in boxing circles.

Key highlights of Itauma’s career so far include:

• Unbeaten streak: 13 consecutive wins since turning professional.

• Knockout power: Known for early-round finishes, including the first-round knockout of Dillian Whyte.

• High-profile potential: Linked with notable heavyweights like Oleksandr Usyk and Justis Huni.

While Joshua may be avoiding the risk now, Itauma’s trajectory suggests that he will continue to dominate the conversation in heavyweight boxing and could challenge any top-tier fighter in the future.

Why Joshua Avoiding Itauma Makes Sense

Anthony Joshua’s decision to skip a fight with Moses Itauma comes down to risk versus reward. Eddie Hearn’s comments highlight the concern that Joshua has little to gain and much to lose in facing a young, undefeated, and dangerous opponent.

Factors influencing this decision include:

• Joshua’s career stage: The former two-time world champion is strategically planning his return in 2026.

• Itauma’s threat level: As a 20-year-old powerhouse, Itauma poses a significant risk to Joshua’s comeback momentum.

• Public perception: Losing to an untested rising star could negatively impact Joshua’s legacy.

In boxing, timing and opponent selection are crucial, and Joshua’s camp appears to be prioritizing calculated matchups over high-risk opportunities.

Other Potential Opponents for Anthony Joshua

While Moses Itauma is off the table for now, several other names have been mentioned as possible opponents for Joshua’s 2026 comeback:

• Oleksandr Usyk: Joshua’s previous rival and former undisputed champion.

• Justis Huni: A promising young heavyweight with international attention.

• Other select heavyweights: Carefully vetted opponents to ensure a high-profile but calculated return.

Joshua’s team, led by Eddie Hearn, is focused on gradually rebuilding momentum before taking on high-risk challengers. The goal is to position Joshua for success without jeopardizing his long-term career.

The Heavyweight Division in 2026

The heavyweight boxing landscape in 2026 promises to be highly competitive. With Joshua plotting a cautious comeback, Moses Itauma rising rapidly, and Deontay Wilder seeking a showdown with Francis Ngannou, fans can expect:

• Explosive matchups: Potential clashes that feature knockout artists and former champions.

• Emerging talent: Young fighters like Moses Itauma challenging established stars.

• Strategic career management: Top heavyweights, including Joshua, selecting opponents carefully to maintain rankings and legacy.

This combination ensures that the heavyweight division remains thrilling and unpredictable, with fans eagerly anticipating major fights in the coming years.

Conclusion: Joshua Avoids Danger, Plans Comeback

Anthony Joshua’s decision to turn down a fight with Moses Itauma underscores the importance of risk management in professional boxing. With his return scheduled for early 2026, Joshua is strategically avoiding a matchup that could threaten his legacy, despite the excitement and attention a fight with Itauma would generate.

Promoter Eddie Hearn has made it clear that Joshua’s focus is on career longevity and calculated victories, rather than high-risk bouts with young and dangerous contenders. Meanwhile, Moses Itauma continues to rise, capturing attention with his unbeaten streak and knockout power.

As fans await Joshua’s return and follow the trajectories of other heavyweights like Wilder and Ngannou, one thing is certain: the heavyweight division in 2026 promises thrilling fights, rising stars, and unforgettable moments. Whether Joshua faces a carefully selected opponent or eventually squares off with a top-tier contender, his comeback will be one of the most anticipated in modern boxing history.