NOT for the first time, Anthony Joshua’s career is at a crossroads.
Having had to rematch Andy Ruiz Jr in order to win his WBA, IBF, WBO and IBO belts back, the Brit now finds himself in the same boat with Oleksandr Usyk.
Only, unlike with Ruiz Jr, many believe that AJ will have his work cut-out to win his rematch with Usyk, likely to take place in early spring..
With an all-British unifier against Tyson Fury out the window if he loses to Usyk again, where will Joshua go from there?
Here are five opponents that SunSport think the 31-year-old could bounce back against.
DEONTAY WILDER
Cornerman Malik Scott has confirmed that the Bronze Bomber is set for a long layoff after his gruelling defeat to Tyson Fury.
A return next year against Joshua could be a perfect way for the American to ensure he remains relevant in the divison.
The victor of this super fight would be well placed for a shot at the winner of Usyk vs Fury.
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DILLIAN WHYTE
If Whyte comes through a tough assignment against Otto Wallin on 30 October, he will be mandatory to fight Fury.
The Brit has long been due a title shot, and could face the Gypsy King around the time that AJ will be fighting Usyk.
Should Whyte lose, a bounce back bout with Joshua could suit both men’s ambitions to get back in contention.
ANDY RUIZ JR
There may not currently be very much appetite for a trilogy bout between Ruiz Jr and AJ.
But with the Mexican-American looking leaner and fitter than ever, he could work his way back into contention.
Following his victory over Chris Arreola in May, Ruiz Jr is looking set to fight again before the end of the year – with Luis Ortiz and Charles Martin both having been mentioned as potential opponents.
JOE JOYCE
The Juggernaut has impressed of late, defeating the highly-touted Daniel Dubois last year before backing it up by beating savvy veteran Carlos Takam over the summer.
Joyce is currently the mandatory challenger for Usyk’s WBO belt.
And at 36, a make-or-break Battle of Britain against Joshua could be an extremely appealing proposition.
FILIP HRGOVIC
Hrgovic is an up-and-coming unbeaten star and seen as one of the dominant forces of the future.
The Croat is 13-0, but has not stepped up the world class level that he needs to take his career to the next step.
A fight with AJ would be a huge step up, but an incredible opportunity for the 29-year-old Croatian.
Source: Boxing - thesun.co.uk
