Key Highlights
- Arslanbek Makhmudov claims Anthony Joshua promised a fight if he defeats David Allen.
- Makhmudov won against David Allen in a dominant points win this month.
- Joshua has been absent from the ring since September 2024, following his defeat to Daniel Dubois.
- Makhmudov believes a fight between him and Joshua would be highly appealing for fans due to their similar backgrounds.
Anthony Joshua’s Return Draws Anticipation
British heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has been absent from the ring since September 2024, following his controversial defeat to Daniel Dubois. However, speculation about a potential return fight is heating up as Arslanbek Makhmudov, a Canadian-based contender, believes he has secured the promise of a showdown with the world champion.
Makhmudov’s Promise and Recent Performance
According to Makhmudov, Joshua had promised him a fight if he defeated David Allen. The Canadian contender sealed a dominant points victory over Allen in his most recent bout this month, which could now bring about a showdown with the heavyweight champion.
Makhmudov’s Background and Claims
Makhmudov, who has 19 knockouts in 21 wins, believes he would be an ideal opponent for Joshua. He points to their shared amateur history, noting that both had losses against European Championship winners during their early careers.
“It’s a perfect fight for him, it’s a perfect fight for me,” Makhmudov stated, emphasizing the similarities between them in terms of age, height, and weight. “We have the same story, and it’s interesting for the fans, it’s interesting for myself.”
Joshua’s Response and Future Plans
Joshua appeared to welcome a fight with Makhmudov next year on social media, prompting Makhmudov to now wait for an official response. Joshua’s camp is currently considering options for his return, which could be highly anticipated by boxing fans around the world.
Industry Context and Analysis
The heavyweight division in professional boxing has seen significant changes over recent years, with top contenders like Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk dominating the scene. Makhmudov’s claim of a potential fight with Joshua could reinvigorate interest in the division.
Industry experts have also weighed in on the possibility. Barry Jones, speaking to Sky Sports’ Toe2Toe program, suggested that Makhmudov would be an ideal opponent for Joshua’s next fight. “Everything is perfect,” said Makhmudov, adding, “Now it’s just to answer the question, when can I fight AJ?”
While Makhmudov awaits Joshua’s response, fans and analysts alike are eagerly watching developments in this high-stakes negotiation.
As of 22 October 2025, the boxing world remains on tenterhooks as both parties prepare for a potential clash that could redefine the heavyweight division once again.
