Promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed that British heavyweight star Anthony Joshua is expected to return to the ring before the end of the year.
Joshua, who last fought in September 2024 when he suffered a knockout defeat to Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium, has been out of action for over a year following elbow surgery.
However, Hearn has now provided a positive update, indicating that the 36-year-old former world champion is close to making his long-awaited comeback.
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He suggested that the heavyweight could return before the end of the year.
When asked if Joshua will fight on one of three Matchroom events on November 15, December 13 and December 27, Hurn replied: “Yes”.
The promoter added: “All I’m saying is, if he fights this year, it will just be a run out fight.
“Because, coming back and fighting in a big arena, in a tough fight after being out for a year and a half, it’s not easy.
“And it isn’t about the money in this fight this year.”
The Briton was rumoured to be eyeing up a fight against rival Tyson Fury, who has retired from the sport.
AJ has also been heavily linked to events in Africa during early 2026, with several opponents putting their names forward, including Tony Yoka.
He could appear on the undercard of Chris Eubank Jr’s fight against Conor Benn in a huge rematch on November 15.
If the turnaround is too tight, the former World Heavyweight Champion could also be lined up to appear in the US on the undercard of Diego Pacheco vs Kevin Lele Sadjo on December 13 in California.
