Joshua still a heavyweight powerhouse: "We have the freedom to pick our next fight"

Anthony Joshua's career over the past four years has been full of ups and downs. It started with a bad period in 2021 and 2022, when the former heavyweight world champion only fought once each year, losing both times to Oleksandr Usyk.

After those disappointing losses, 2023 brought a turnaround. Anthony regained his confidence, fought three easy bouts against Franklin, Helenius and Wallin, and won all three. He looked better each time, and his performance became stronger. His fans were eagerly awaiting "AJ"'s return to the top, as he once again looked like a fighter capable of fighting for the biggest titles.

The uncertainty of 2024

However, 2024 was a bit of a disappointment. Joshua did two fights; in the first he knocked out Francis Ngannou in the third month, and in the second he tried to win the IBF title against Daniel Dubois in the ninth month. Unfortunately, Dubois outclassed him, and "AJ" lost again in the fight for the world belt. These results mean Joshua has now lost three consecutive title fights, and another shot at the belt could become almost unattainable.

Many fighters would withdraw from combinations for big fights after such results, but Joshua is not among them. Regardless of his current form and results, Anthony is still one of the most famous heavyweights in the world. He is recognized as a fighter who will enjoy a privileged status until the end of his career, even if he is not in the fight for the very top.

Eddie Hearn, Anthony Joshua's manager, said: "We're well positioned within the heavyweight division. Even though a lot of people don't like it, 'AJ' is still a big name in the world. We can fight whoever we want. He'll take on the biggest challenges, as he always has." Hearn also mentioned that talks about Joshua's next fight are set to begin in the coming weeks, with possible options including fights with Tyson Fury, Martin Bakola, Deontay Wilder and many others.

The only question left is - who will be the next opponent for one of today's most famous heavyweights?