Anthony Joshua rejects rival contract offer as Eddie Hearn hints at return
Anthony Joshua has rejected a contract offer from a rival promoter as Eddie Hearn teased the British heavyweight’s imminent return to the ring.
Matchroom Boxing boss Hearn shared a photograph of himself alongside the 36-year-old on social media, accompanied by the caption “loading”.
The update arrives shortly after Hearn revealed that his star client had swiftly dismissed an approach from a competing promotional outfit.
This steadfast loyalty stands in stark contrast to the recent departure of Conor Benn, who controversially left Matchroom to join Dana White’s new Zuffa Boxing venture in February.
Loyalty to Matchroom
Speaking on a recent podcast appearance, Hearn detailed how the former two-time world champion immediately informed him of the external approach.
Do you know how quickly he sent me the message, the screenshot? Seconds.
‘Let me know what you wanna reply.’ And it’s like, we’re a team. ‘Til the wheels come off, we are a team, and I’ve got your back always.
Recovery from Nigerian crash
The Olympic gold medallist last fought in December, securing a sixth-round stoppage victory over influencer Jake Paul.
However, his fighting future was cast into intense doubt just 10 days later following a devastating car crash in Nigeria.
The tragic incident claimed the lives of two of his teammates and left the heavyweight star with significant injuries.
Despite the severe physical and emotional toll, he swiftly returned to gym work, prompting early speculation of a summer comeback.
Future heavyweight landscape
Discussions have long linked the Watford-born fighter to a loosely planned blockbuster bout against domestic rival Tyson Fury in 2026.
The “Gypsy King” is currently preparing to emerge from his fifth retirement to face Arslanbek Makhmudov in April.
Meanwhile, other potential opponents are already booked for the coming months.
Kickboxing icon Rico Verhoeven is scheduled to challenge Oleksandr Usyk for the WBC title at the Giza pyramids this May.
