IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois has called on former rival Anthony Joshua to retire from professional boxing following their explosive showdown at Wembley Stadium last year.
Dubois successfully defended his IBF world title for the first time by knocking out Joshua in the fifth round, handing the two-time unified champion the fourth loss of his career.
Speaking to Seconds Out months after the fight, Dubois didn’t mince words about Joshua’s future. “Does he want some more? He should retire, in my opinion,” he said.
The brutal defeat has reignited debate around the 35-year-old’s future in the sport. Joshua, who turned pro in 2013 after winning Olympic gold at the 2012 London Games, has faced growing calls to step away—from fans, pundits, and now Dubois himself.
However, Joshua appears determined to continue. After undergoing elbow surgery in May, he has been working behind the scenes on a comeback. In a recent interview with ESPN Mexico, he revealed plans to return to the ring in December, depending on his recovery.
Talks are currently underway for a two-fight deal as part of Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Season. Promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed discussions with Turki Alalshikh and said they’re exploring a return later this year.
A rematch with Dubois remains a possible option. But with Dubois set to face Oleksandr Usyk again on July 19 at Wembley, and a potential mandatory title defence against Joseph Parker looming, a second Joshua-Dubois clash is far from certain.
Joshua still has his sights set on Tyson Fury. But ‘The Gypsy King,’ who announced his retirement in January, insists he has no plans to return. In a recent video message, Fury said, “I’m in no rush to come back to boxing and get my face punched in. I am retired and I am staying retired.”
As Team Joshua monitors the outcome of Dubois vs. Usyk and Fury’s future, Hearn remains open to other opponents. “If we don’t fight those guys, we’ll fight someone else and maybe follow up next year,” he said.
Despite the setback, Joshua’s star power hasn’t faded. According to the newly published Sunday Times Rich List, his net worth has climbed to €232 million—making him wealthier than England football captain Harry Kane and even Tyson Fury.
