Anthony Joshua, a heavyweight boxer from Britain and Nigeria, has agreed in principle to fight Arslanbek Makhmudov of Russia in 2026.
After a quick Instagram conversation, Makhmudov, who is 6′ 5″, disclosed in an interview with Boxing News that Joshua reacted favorably. The Russian, known as “The Lion,” claimed that although their chat was cordial, it alluded to something more significant that might be coming.
“Yes,” Makhmudov said, “we just had a brief conversation on Instagram.” Simply being friendly, you know. He answered, “All right, next year,” when I offered him the next battle. We can do it next year.
This weekend in Sheffield, the Montreal-based fighter will take on British veteran Dave Allen, but he already has Joshua in his sights. The conflict has a personal edge for him.
It’s a favorable chance. In the amateurs, we had a little story. He lost to competitors in the global championship and the European championship; I defeated them both. It’s intriguing to me,” he remarked.
With negotiations for a comeback bout in Nigeria still in progress, Joshua, who has not competed since losing to Daniel Dubois at Wembley last September, is anticipated to return to the ring early next year.
Plans are being considered for Joshua’s much anticipated return home, according to promoter Dr. Ezekiel Adamu, who co-organized the Chaos in the Ring event in Lagos alongside former world champion Amir Khan.
Martin Bakole, a Congolese heavyweight, has also entered the fray and called for what he called a “Rumble in the Jungle II.”
Bakole said to Sky Sports, “I would absolutely accept the fight with Anthony Joshua.” “He is aware of the sparring incident. I will definitely knock him out if we enter the ring.
