In a surprising turn of events, former two-time heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua has agreed to a fight with Russian powerhouse Arslanbek Makhmudov, contingent upon Makhmudov’s victory over British contender Dave Allen this Saturday at Sheffield Arena.

The Social Media Spark

The potential bout gained traction after Makhmudov claimed that Joshua had agreed to face him in 2026, provided Makhmudov triumphs over Allen.

Makhmudov revealed that the agreement was made via Instagram Direct Message, with Joshua allegedly stating, “If you win this fight, we fight next year.”

Matchroom’s Response

However, Joshua’s promoter, Matchroom Boxing, has dismissed these claims. CEO Frank Smith clarified that while Makhmudov has persistently reached out to Joshua online, there is no official agreement for a fight between the two.

Smith emphasized that Joshua’s team is exploring various options for his comeback, including potential bouts against Tony Yoka, Martin Bakole, and Efe Ajagba.

Makhmudov’s Motivation

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the potential Joshua fight, Makhmudov remains focused on his upcoming challenge against Dave Allen.

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The 36-year-old Russian, known for his formidable knockout power, views the bout as a critical opportunity to revive his career following recent setbacks.

A victory over Allen could position him for significant matchups in 2026.

The Face-off

As the heavyweight division continues to evolve, the prospect of a Joshua-Makhmudov showdown adds an intriguing layer to the landscape.

While no official contract has been signed, the discussions highlight the dynamic nature of the sport and the potential for unexpected matchups in the future.