As one of the most recognized names in boxing, Anthony Joshua continues to captivate the world’s attention with his performances in the ring and his strategic moves outside of it. Known for his athletic physique, impressive knockout power, and remarkable career trajectory, Joshua has become a global figure in the sport of boxing. His next fight is one of the most anticipated events in the boxing world, with fans and analysts eager to see how the former heavyweight champion will perform after his latest setbacks.
Anthony Joshua’s Boxing Journey: Past Achievements
Before diving into his next fight, it is essential to understand where Anthony Joshua’s career stands today, and how his journey has shaped his upcoming challenges.
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Anthony Joshua made his professional debut in 2013, after a successful amateur career that included winning a gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics in the heavyweight division. His powerful punches, athleticism, and impeccable physique quickly made him a standout figure in British boxing.
Within just a few years, Joshua climbed the heavyweight ranks, eventually becoming the WBA, IBF, and WBO world heavyweight champion. His victory over Charles Martin in 2016 marked the beginning of his reign, and he continued to impress with dominant performances against top-level fighters, including Wladimir Klitschko and Joseph Parker.
Joshua’s knockout power was a key factor in his success. He was able to dispose of opponents with devastating combinations, earning a reputation for his precision and strength in the ring. His ability to control distance, combined with his solid footwork and jab, made him a formidable force in the heavyweight division.
Defeats and Setbacks
However, his career trajectory took an unexpected turn in 2019 when he suffered a shocking loss to Andy Ruiz Jr. in a massive upset. Ruiz, a heavy underdog, took Joshua’s world titles after knocking him down four times before the referee stopped the fight in the seventh round. This defeat led to criticism of Joshua’s performance, his preparation, and his ability to handle pressure in the ring.
But Joshua bounced back strongly in the rematch against Ruiz later that year, regaining his titles with a dominant points decision. His technical approach in the rematch showcased his maturity and ability to adjust in tough situations, solidifying his place as one of the top heavyweights in the world.
Despite the setback, Joshua remained a major player in the heavyweight division, maintaining his reputation as a top-level boxer with a hunger for regaining and defending his titles.
Recent Loss and Career Shift
In 2022, Joshua faced another tough challenge against Oleksandr Usyk, a former undisputed cruiserweight champion moving up to heavyweight. Usyk delivered a masterclass performance, winning by unanimous decision and taking Joshua’s remaining titles. This defeat left Joshua with many questions about his future in the sport, as his ability to cope with top-tier opponents was once again under scrutiny.
After the loss to Usyk, Joshua’s team made changes, bringing in a new trainer, Derrick James, to work alongside him. The objective was to rebuild his confidence, refine his skills, and make the necessary adjustments to reclaim his spot as a dominant force in the heavyweight division.
Anthony Joshua’s Next Fight: Who Is He Facing?
With the uncertainty surrounding Joshua’s career after his loss to Usyk, the boxing world has been eagerly awaiting his next move. As of 2025, Anthony Joshua’s next fight is confirmed to be against Jermaine Franklin, an American heavyweight who has gained recognition for his gritty performances in the ring.
Jermaine Franklin: The Opponent
Jermaine Franklin, a Michigan native, is considered an up-and-coming heavyweight with a solid professional record. He is known for his resilience and his ability to go the distance with tough opponents. Franklin’s biggest claim to fame came in 2022 when he faced Dillian Whyte in a highly publicized match. Although Franklin lost to Whyte by majority decision, his performance was respectable, showing that he has the stamina and boxing IQ to compete with elite heavyweights.
Franklin is now aiming to make a name for himself by taking on Joshua, one of the biggest names in the sport. A victory over Joshua would catapult him into title contention and place him in the conversation for some of the biggest fights in the heavyweight division.
Why This Fight Matters for Joshua
For Anthony Joshua, this fight is a crucial one in his career. Following his losses to Ruiz and Usyk, Joshua needs a strong performance to rebuild his standing in the heavyweight division. A win against Franklin would signal to fans and critics alike that he is back to his best and ready to take on the top contenders for a potential future title shot.
However, the fight also comes with risks. While Franklin is not as well-known as some of the division’s top stars, he is still a competent boxer capable of causing problems for Joshua. For Joshua, this fight represents a chance to showcase his adjustments under his new trainer, Derrick James, and prove that he can adapt to the changing dynamics of the heavyweight division.
What to Expect From Anthony Joshua’s Next Fight
Fans of Anthony Joshua can expect a highly competitive and entertaining match. Here are the key aspects that will determine how the fight unfolds:
Joshua’s New Approach
With the addition of Derrick James to his corner, Joshua is likely to take a more disciplined and technical approach in this fight. James is known for his work with other champions, such as Errol Spence Jr., and he will likely push Joshua to refine his jab, work behind the distance, and avoid the kind of reckless aggression that has led to his past defeats. Joshua will look to establish control early, using his jab to measure Franklin’s reach and distance while avoiding unnecessary risks.
Franklin’s Resilience
Jermaine Franklin will come into the fight motivated and determined to prove himself. Known for his stamina and toughness, Franklin will likely test Joshua’s ability to withstand a fast-paced contest. He will look to pressure Joshua and exploit any defensive lapses, while using his counterpunching ability to capitalize on Joshua’s mistakes. Franklin’s best chance is to push Joshua into uncomfortable situations and keep the fight competitive.
The Power Game
Anthony Joshua’s knockout power remains one of his greatest assets. If he can land clean shots, particularly his right hand, he has the ability to end the fight quickly. Franklin will need to avoid getting caught by Joshua’s explosive punches, which have historically been able to take down opponents with a single shot. However, Joshua’s knockout power could be neutralized if Franklin can keep the fight at a distance and avoid trading blows in close range.
Why Anthony Joshua’s Next Fight is Trending
Anthony Joshua’s next fight is trending because of the significance it holds for his career. Following his two recent losses, this match against Jermaine Franklin presents a chance for Joshua to reassert himself as a top contender in the heavyweight division. Fans are eager to see if Joshua can return to his knockout-hunting style or if he will continue to refine his approach under the guidance of Derrick James.
Moreover, the heavyweight division is currently brimming with talent, including stars like Tyson Fury, Oleksandr Usyk, and Deontay Wilder. Joshua’s performance in this fight could set the stage for potential matchups with these top fighters in the future, adding another layer of intrigue to the contest.
Joshua is one of the biggest draws in boxing, and the fact that he is coming off two losses only adds to the drama. Can the former champion regain his position at the top of the division, or is he past his prime? This uncertainty, coupled with the intriguing styles of both fighters, makes the fight highly anticipated among boxing fans.
The Future of Anthony Joshua
Looking beyond his next fight, Anthony Joshua’s future in the sport will largely depend on his performance against Jermaine Franklin. If Joshua wins, he will likely pursue more significant challenges, aiming for a trilogy fight with Usyk or perhaps a long-awaited clash with Tyson Fury. A win could position Joshua for a title shot, revitalizing his career and allowing him to compete for the major heavyweight belts once again.
On the other hand, a loss would raise questions about his future in boxing. At 34 years old, Joshua may be at a crossroads in his career, where a loss could make it difficult to mount a successful comeback at the elite level. Still, Joshua has the skills, power, and resources to bounce back, and boxing fans will be eager to see how he handles the pressure moving forward.
FAQ’s
When is Anthony Joshua’s next fight?
Anthony Joshua’s next fight is scheduled for April 2025. This fight is an important step in his career, as it comes after his losses to Oleksandr Usyk and the quest for redemption after a challenging period. The exact date and venue will be confirmed as the fight draws closer, but the boxing world is already buzzing with anticipation regarding this pivotal matchup.
Who is Anthony Joshua fighting next?
Anthony Joshua is set to face Jermaine Franklin in his upcoming bout. Franklin, an American heavyweight, is best known for his competitive match with Dillian Whyte in 2022, where he fought hard but ultimately lost by a majority decision. This fight will be a major opportunity for Franklin to make a statement in the heavyweight division, while for Joshua, it is a crucial match to prove he can still be a force in the heavyweight ranks.
To Conclude,
Anthony Joshua’s next fight is more than just a boxing match; it is a pivotal moment in his career. It is a chance for him to prove that he can overcome his setbacks and reclaim his position as one of the top heavyweights in the world. The world is watching closely as Joshua faces Jermaine Franklin in what promises to be a compelling encounter. Whether Joshua wins or loses, his future in the sport is set to be filled with exciting possibilities and potential matchups with some of the biggest names in boxing.
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