Former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua has been banned for 28 days after suffering a crushing defeat to fellow countryman Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium. Joshua was knocked down three times before being knocked out in the fifth round, leaving the former ‘King of Boxing’ unable to recover. The 28-day ban, issued by the British Boxing Board of Control, is standard for British boxers who lose by knockout or in a fight.
However, the ban is unlikely to affect Joshua’s schedule too much, as he has no plans to fight before 19 October. Following this defeat, Joshua is likely to return to the ring in 2025, in the context of this being the fourth professional defeat of his career.
Despite the defeat to Dubois, Joshua is determined not to give up his career. His promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed three potential opponents for Joshua’s next comeback. One of the notable options is a rematch with Daniel Dubois, who knocked Joshua out at Wembley.
Joshua’s future could also hinge on the outcome of the rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury on December 21. Hearn said that if Fury loses, Joshua and Fury could stage a final epic fight to show their appreciation to the fans. If Fury wins, he could face Joshua in a unification fight for the heavyweight title.
The 2012 Olympic champion is facing a number of challenges, but that hasn’t stopped “The King” from aiming to become the world heavyweight champion for a third time.