International Boxing Federation heavyweight champion heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois has expressed his interest in a rematch with Anthony Joshua, even as he prepares to defend his title against Joseph Parker in February 2025.
“As a fighter, I would love to get in the ring and put the final touches on our rivalry,” Dubois told *Mirgor*. “But as it is, I’m just really excited to get out there and defend that belt again. I’m sure a rematch with Joshua could happen in the future, who knows? So yeah, I’m just ready to continue on my journey.”
Dubois’s desire for a second showdown follows his dramatic knockout victory over Joshua at Wembley Stadium in September 2024. Despite the loss, Joshua, a former two-time heavyweight champion, remains a significant figure in boxing. However, his promoter, Eddie Hearn, has stated that Joshua is unlikely to return to the ring before May 2025.
Meanwhile, Joshua could take a different path toward regaining heavyweight glory. The WBC has approved a fight between Zhilei Zhang and Agit Kabayel for its interim heavyweight title. The winner of that bout could potentially face Joshua.
WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman confirmed this, saying:
“The WBC has received a formal request to sanction this fight for the interim title, and we will accept it. We’ve been clear and transparent in supporting the best possible matchups, especially in the heavyweight division.”
Amir Khan, a former unified light welterweight world champion, has advised Joshua to focus on securing a mega-fight against Tyson Fury before retiring.
“He should wait for the big fight against Tyson Fury,” Khan told *New Zealand Daily*. “They’re both such big names, and I think he should call it a day after that.”
A potential bout between Joshua and Fury could happen under the Riyadh Season banner, depending on the outcome of Fury’s December fight against Oleksandr Usyk. Reports suggest that His Excellency Turki Alalshikh could make a lucrative offer for the matchup if Fury fails to reclaim his title.
Joshua’s earnings in 2024 have been remarkable, totaling $75 million, with paydays from marquee fights making him one of the sport’s highest earners. He earned $65 million for his rematch with Andy Ruiz Jr. in Saudi Arabia and over $40 million for two bouts against Usyk.
With multiple options ahead, including the WBC interim title route and possible mega-fights with Fury or Dubois, Joshua’s next move could shape the future of the heavyweight division.
