Key Highlights
- Turki Alalshikh revealed Anthony Joshua will fight in Saudi Arabia in February.
- The former world heavyweight champion is set to return after 14 months of inactivity.
- Alalshikh also hinted at a major boxing event in London next September.
- Eddie Hearn, Matchroom promoter, suggested Joshua might face Jake Paul in December but this seems unlikely now.
The Return of Anthony Joshua: Where and When?
Saudi Arabia is set to host one of the biggest names in boxing when former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua returns to the ring. According to sportscaster Turki Alalshikh, Joshua will make his comeback on February 14, 2026, at an undisclosed venue within the kingdom.
This revelation comes after a long period of inactivity for the British boxer, who last fought against Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in September 2024. The bout ended with Joshua being stopped by Dubois in the 11th round, marking his first defeat since winning the IBF, IBO, and WBA belts.
In an exclusive interview with DAZN, Alalshikh also dropped hints about a major boxing event taking place in London next September.
While he didn’t explicitly name Joshua as the opponent, many speculate that this could be a nod to his long-term rival Tyson Fury. However, Alalshikh’s statement leaves the date of this potential clash uncertain and will keep boxing fans eagerly awaiting more details.
Speculation Versus Reality: The Jake Paul Controversy
The possibility of Joshua fighting against YouTube sensation Jake Paul had been generating significant buzz, particularly as plans were reportedly in the works for such a bout to take place in December 2025. However, Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn, who has managed Joshua’s career since his rise to fame, seems to have dashed these hopes by stating that the fight between the two is now “dead in the water.”
Hearn’s comments suggest that while a fight with Paul may still happen, it likely won’t be as imminent or high-profile as initially anticipated. This decision could be due to various factors, including scheduling issues, contractual disagreements, or simply prioritizing other high-stakes bouts.
Looking Forward: The Future of Boxing in Saudi Arabia
The news that Joshua will return to the ring in Saudi Arabia has significant implications for the future of boxing in the kingdom. Alalshikh’s involvement and the potential for major fights in both London and Riyadh highlight the growing importance of international sports events in Saudi Arabia.
Boxing has been gaining popularity in the region, with the country hosting several high-profile matches over recent years. This trend is part of a broader initiative by the Saudi government to diversify its economy and attract more tourists through cultural and sporting events.
As Joshua’s return demonstrates, these efforts are paying off, with major boxing stars showing interest in performing in the kingdom.
While the exact details remain uncertain for now, fans can expect exciting times ahead as Anthony Joshua prepares to make his comeback and potentially face some of the biggest names in the sport. With a February 14, 2026, date already set, boxing enthusiasts will be eagerly watching every update on this promising chapter in Joshua’s career.
