Boxer Anthony Joshua discusses possible retirement after KO loss to Daniel Dubois

Boxer Anthony Joshua discusses possible retirement after KO loss to Daniel DuboisBoxer Anthony Joshua discusses possible retirement after KO loss to Daniel DuboisAnthony Joshua Discusses Possible Retirement After Knockout Loss to Daniel Dubois

British boxing star Anthony Joshua is at a crossroads in his career following a stunning knockout defeat to fellow Briton Daniel Dubois. The bout, which took place in a packed arena, ended in shocking fashion when Dubois floored Joshua with a brutal right hand, leading many to question the future of the former two-time heavyweight champion.

A Career on the Line

The loss marks a significant blow for Joshua, who has struggled to regain his dominant form after previous defeats to Oleksandr Usyk and Andy Ruiz Jr. Once seen as the face of the heavyweight division, Joshua’s career has been marked by highs and lows, but his latest setback has prompted serious discussions about whether retirement is on the horizon.

Speaking candidly in the post-fight press conference, Joshua did not shy away from the tough questions. “It’s a difficult moment. I have to reflect on everything now—my career, my health, and where I go from here,” Joshua said. “I’ve given everything to this sport, but sometimes, you have to know when to walk away.”

A Storied Legacy

At 34, Joshua’s boxing resume remains impressive. He burst onto the professional scene after winning a gold medal at the 2012 Olympics and quickly ascended through the ranks, capturing the IBF, WBA, and WBO heavyweight titles. Known for his power, athleticism, and resilience, Joshua was once seen as the future of boxing’s premier division.

However, in recent years, cracks have started to appear in his once-invincible persona. The shock 2019 loss to Ruiz in New York, followed by consecutive defeats to Usyk in 2021 and 2022, left his career in a precarious position. While he bounced back with a win against Jermaine Franklin earlier this year, the defeat to Dubois has left fans and pundits wondering if Joshua’s best days are behind him.

Dubois Seizes His Moment

For Daniel Dubois, the victory over Joshua is the biggest win of his career. The 26-year-old, who has long been touted as a future champion, delivered a career-defining performance, showing composure and precision to finish Joshua in the later rounds. “This is what I’ve been working for my whole life,” Dubois said after the fight. “Anthony is a legend in the sport, but tonight, it was my time.”

Dubois, who suffered a setback himself in 2020 when he lost to Joe Joyce, has now thrust himself into the conversation for future world title fights. His victory over Joshua could open the door to a potential clash with WBC champion Tyson Fury or a rematch with Joyce.

What’s Next for Joshua?

While Joshua has not officially announced his retirement, his comments signal that a decision could be imminent. Many boxing fans are hopeful that he will consider one last hurrah—perhaps a trilogy fight with Ruiz or another rematch with Usyk—but the physical and mental toll of the sport may push him toward hanging up his gloves for good.

Promoter Eddie Hearn has also weighed in, stating that Joshua’s future remains undecided. “Anthony is a warrior, but we have to take stock of what just happened. There are still big fights out there for him, but it’s ultimately up to him and his team to decide what comes next.”

As the dust settles on his latest defeat, Joshua’s legacy as one of the greatest British heavyweights is secure. However, whether he continues to fight or decides to retire, the boxing world will be watching closely.

For now, Anthony Joshua remains reflective, knowing that his next move could shape his legacy and the future of heavyweight boxing.