Recent discussions indicate that Anthony Joshua is preparing for his much-anticipated return to the boxing ring, potentially in December. Following a notable defeat to Daniel Dubois in September 2024, which marked his longest period of inactivity since his 2012 Olympic gold medal win, the former champion's next move has been a subject of considerable interest. While a commercially lucrative fight against influencer Jake Paul has been a persistent rumor, Joshua's trainer, Ben Davison, has publicly expressed reservations about such a matchup, and Joshua himself has previously voiced skepticism regarding influencer boxing.

Instead, signs point toward a potential clash with French Olympic gold medalist Tony Yoka. Yoka, who secured his Olympic title four years after Joshua, has recently inked a promotional deal with Queensberry Promotions. This alignment, coupled with both Joshua (under Matchroom) and Yoka sharing DAZN as a broadcast partner, significantly increases the feasibility of this fight. Despite a challenging period in 2022 and 2023 with three losses, Yoka, now 33, has revitalized his career with three consecutive victories, including a recent triumph over undefeated Arslan Yallyev. Yoka has also openly stated that a fight with Joshua is a \"big possibility.\" Adding to the intrigue, Joshua was recently seen interacting with French promoter Yohan Zaoui, who recounted Joshua's hint that his next opponent would \"certainly be French,\" leaning 90% towards Yoka over Paul.

This impending decision for Anthony Joshua underscores the strategic considerations involved in his career as he looks to regain momentum. Opting for Yoka, a fellow Olympic champion and a legitimate contender within the professional ranks, would signal a commitment to traditional boxing rather than the spectacle of celebrity fights. This path, though perhaps less sensational than a bout with Jake Paul, reflects a dedication to athletic integrity and a challenging return to the sport's highest levels, demonstrating that true victory lies not just in a win, but in the integrity of the contest itself.