Anthony Joshua has been a dominant force in heavyweight boxing for over a decade, but after recent performances, the question lingers: are we witnessing the end of an era? With the division evolving and new contenders rising, Joshua’s future in the sport remains uncertain. Let’s break down his career trajectory, his recent fights, and what could be next for the former heavyweight champion.
A Legacy of Dominance
Since turning professional in 2013, Joshua has been a powerhouse in the heavyweight division. With Olympic gold to his name and an impressive early run in the pro ranks, he quickly became the face of British boxing. His knockout power and athleticism made him a must-watch fighter, drawing huge crowds and record-breaking pay-per-view numbers.
Joshua’s defining moment came in 2017 when he defeated Wladimir Klitschko at Wembley in an instant classic. The fight showcased his resilience, ability to adapt, and knockout power. It solidified him as the king of the division, but as time passed, challenges began to mount.
Recent Struggles and Setbacks
While Joshua’s career has had massive highs, his setbacks cannot be ignored. His stunning loss to Andy Ruiz Jr. in 2019 shocked the boxing world. Although he avenged the defeat in a disciplined rematch, cracks in his once-invincible aura had begun to show.
Then came the back-to-back losses to Oleksandr Usyk. The Ukrainian’s superior boxing IQ and movement exposed weaknesses in Joshua’s game, raising doubts about his ability to reclaim heavyweight supremacy. Many boxing analysts, including ESPN, believe Joshua needs to reinvent his style to compete with today’s elite fighters.
The Changing Heavyweight Landscape
The heavyweight division is no longer just about Joshua. Tyson Fury remains a dominant figure, Deontay Wilder still possesses devastating power, and new contenders like Daniel Dubois and Joe Joyce are on the rise. The upcoming clash between Fury and Usyk will likely determine the undisputed champion, leaving Joshua in a tough position.
For Joshua to stay relevant, a strategic comeback is necessary. Many fans and pundits argue he should take on high-risk, high-reward fights, perhaps against someone like Zhilei Zhang or even Wilder, rather than playing it safe.
What’s Next for AJ?
Joshua has options, but they all come with challenges. A potential fight against Wilder would be a blockbuster event, but with both men coming off mixed performances, the stakes have never been higher. Alternatively, he could target a rematch with Usyk down the line, but he’d need to demonstrate major improvements first.
Some experts, including those at Sky Sports, suggest Joshua should focus on refining his strategy under his new trainer and taking a few lower-risk fights before another title shot. However, with his star power, fans expect nothing less than headline-worthy matchups.
The Verdict: End of an Era or a New Chapter?
Joshua’s legacy in boxing is secure, but his future remains uncertain. Is this the beginning of the end, or does he still have one last run left in him? Boxing is unpredictable, and we’ve seen legends reinvent themselves before. If Joshua can adapt, he could still reclaim his spot at the top.
What Do You Think? Join the Conversation!
Do you believe Anthony Joshua has what it takes for one last championship run, or are his best days behind him? Let’s discuss in the comments below! Agree or disagree with my take? Share your thoughts, and don’t forget to check out more boxing updates on CMBoxing.co.uk.
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