Joshua Plans Three More Years in the Ring

According to Matchroom founder Barry Hearn, 36-year-old Anthony Joshua could remain in boxing for at least another three years. This Saturday, the former heavyweight world champion is set to face the lesser-known Christian Prenga in Saudi Arabia, before a blockbuster all-British clash with Tyson Fury in November.

Previously, Eddie Hearn had hinted that 2026 might be Joshua's final year in professional boxing. However, that was before the Briton, with a record of 29 wins and four losses, including 26 knockouts, defeated Jake Paul in December, and subsequently endured a car accident that tragically claimed the lives of two of his closest friends.

It is believed that the accident, from which Joshua had to recover from his injuries, reignited his fighting spirit. The Briton, a dream endorsement for sponsors, has reportedly stepped away from his other business ventures to focus entirely on boxing.

“I’ve known him since 2012, and we’ve become very close. He’s like a member of our family,” Barry Hearn told Sky Sports. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen him so motivated for the long term. As I said, part of that motivation was fueled by the tragic accident, but now he’s talking about another three years in the ring. Just a year ago, we were discussing the possibility of him having two more fights and then happily retiring. He’s incredibly motivated and feels good, but boxing is a peculiar sport. One good punch from a big opponent is enough to knock out anyone in the world.”