All is not lost, it seems, when it comes to the controversial fight between Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul, at least as far as a promoter is concerned.
Switching focus last month, polarizing boxing upstart Jake Paul will enter the ring in November to take on Gervonta Davis in an exhibition match against the current WBA lightweight champion.
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And with opinion divided on the mismatch between Paul and Davis set to be broadcast on Netflix, former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has been left in the lurch, so to speak.
However, it seems the Watford native has been thrown a lifeline on a potential fight with Paul — as soon as the new year, in fact.
Eddie Hearn provides update on Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul
One of the most interested parties in their go-around is Matchroom Boxing leader Eddie Hearn, who is guiding Joshua to a 2026 return to the ring, in rather cautious circumstances.
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And despite ruling the former two-time champion from a host of big-name fights in his immediate return to the ring, Hearn revealed how Paul and company are confident of bringing Joshua to the ring for a clash in March of next year.
“I actually spoke to Nakisa (Badarian) yesterday at length, about various stuff,” Hearn told IFL TV. “And they wanna move forward with the (Anthony) Joshua fight.
“Around March 2026,” Hearn revealed. “But I said to him, ‘If you [Jake Paul] get chinned by Gervonta Davis, I can’t possibly make the fight with AJ.’
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“…They don’t think that’s gonna happen.”
And amid further links to a “special” boxing return potentially at an event in Africa, a former world champion akin to Joshua has been tied to an overdue clash with the Brit next as well.
Deontay Wilder plays up super fight amid Anthony Joshua links
Most recently hit with a definitive callout by would-be common foe Francis Ngannou, former undisputed WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder seems to always find himself amongst the sweepstakes to face Joshua.
And issuing a rather cryptic response to both Ngannou and continued talk of a super fight return to the ring after his latest knockout win, Wilder appears ready for all comers.
“Respect, but I’m ten toes down. No fear, no fold, no fake.. Always ready, always solid,” Wilder posted on his official Instagram account. “Step in the ring and you’ll see what that means. @francisngannou”