British boxing star Anthony Joshua has confirmed he will return to the ring in December 2025, after undergoing elbow surgery that has kept him sidelined since his defeat to Daniel Dubois last September.
The two-time world heavyweight champion, who was knocked out in the fifth round at Wembley, said his focus is now on rehabilitation and a full recovery before resuming full training later in the year.
The surgery, conducted earlier this month, is expected to sideline Joshua from gym activity for approximately eight weeks. His December return will mark over a year since his last bout, extending the longest lay-off of his professional career.
Speculation around a long-awaited mega-fight with Tyson Fury may now be put on hold. A UK stadium showdown is unlikely during winter, raising the possibility that the bout could be rescheduled for 2026, potentially in the Middle East, where weather and commercial factors may be more favorable.
Joshua’s team has yet to confirm his next opponent, but sources say discussions are ongoing for a high-profile return fight to reestablish his position in the heavyweight division.
Sources:Anthony Joshua via official social media statement, Matchroom Boxing, British Boxing Board of Control
