Anthony Joshua hasn’t stepped into the ring since his heavy loss to Daniel Dubois last year. Now, he’s in Saudi Arabia, ahead of a highly anticipated night of boxing.

However, despite being in the same city as the event, Joshua wasn’t considered as a late replacement for Daniel Dubois.

Dubois’ Withdrawal Causes a Stir

The shock announcement came late on Thursday when Daniel Dubois pulled out of his scheduled title fight with Joseph Parker.

Just a day before, Dubois had declared himself “absolutely” ready to face the former world champion from New Zealand.

However, after feeling unwell, he was examined by a doctor in Riyadh and ultimately forced to withdraw from the bout.

Promoter Frank Warren was quick to act, looking for a suitable replacement for the fight.

Eventually, Congolese boxer Martin Bakole was confirmed as the new opponent for Parker on Saturday night.

Joshua Was Not Considered for the Replacement

Despite Joshua being in Riyadh, he wasn’t considered as a potential late replacement for Dubois.

The former world champion has been in the spotlight following his shocking knockout loss to Dubois at Wembley Stadium in September.

After being knocked out in just five rounds, Joshua’s future in the ring has been the subject of much speculation.

Joshua, 35, has not fought since that crushing defeat, and the boxing world has been buzzing about whether he will retire or keep fighting.

Rumors about his retirement have been circulating for months, and this week, promoter Eddie Hearn suggested that Joshua may have only two or three fights left in his career.

He stated, “The plan and goal for Anthony Joshua, always, from now to the moment he retires, is to try and win the world heavyweight championship.

To try and become a three-time world heavyweight champion.”

Joshua’s Next Steps and a Potential Rematch

If Joshua’s plans hold, the goal is to go after another shot at the world heavyweight title.

He’s expressed interest in fighting the winner of the Dubois vs. Parker match for a chance to become a world champion once again.

The victor of that fight was originally slated to meet Oleksandr Usyk for a heavyweight unification clash later this year.

However, with Dubois out, Parker’s dream of another world title shot will have to wait, as will Joshua’s.

To show that he’s still focused on his career, Joshua posted videos on Instagram of him training.

One video showed him shadowboxing on a beach, and another featured him practicing again by a gazebo later in the day.

Joshua’s Previous Victory Over Parker

This wouldn’t be the first time Joshua faces Joseph Parker in the ring.

The two had a fight back in 2018, where Joshua emerged victorious via unanimous decision.

Fans are now left to wonder whether Joshua will get another chance at the world title and whether his upcoming fights will shape the next phase of his career.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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