Anthony Joshua Vs Arslanbek Makhmudov: A Potential Heavyweight Collision of Power and Legacy

The heavyweight division in boxing has always captured the imagination of fight fans, with towering physiques, devastating knockouts, and stories of redemption, dominance, and ambition. A potential matchup brewing on the horizon between Anthony Joshua and Arslanbek Makhmudov is gaining traction as a fight that could deliver fireworks. While not yet officially confirmed, discussions and speculation are intensifying following Makhmudov's rising profile and Joshua's quest for one final run at heavyweight supremacy.

Anthony Joshua: The Rise, Fall, and Resurgence

Anthony Joshua (AJ), born in Watford, England, rose rapidly through the boxing ranks. After winning the gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics, he transitioned into the professional ranks in 2013 with high expectations on his shoulders. Known for his chiseled physique, composed demeanor, and knockout power, Joshua quickly became a British and global boxing sensation.

By 2016, Joshua had captured the IBF heavyweight title after defeating Charles Martin. He unified the division by beating Wladimir Klitschko in a legendary 2017 fight, adding the WBA (Super) and IBO titles to his collection in a bout that was both a passing of the torch and a career-defining victory. The thrilling win over Klitschko cemented Joshua’s status as a global star.

However, AJ’s journey has been far from smooth. In a shocking upset in 2019, he lost his titles to Andy Ruiz Jr. in New York. The loss exposed vulnerabilities in Joshua’s fighting style and mindset, but he bounced back later that year with a disciplined unanimous decision win in the rematch.

After reclaiming his belts, Joshua aimed for total unification, but ran into Oleksandr Usyk, the undefeated Ukrainian southpaw and former undisputed cruiserweight champion. Usyk outboxed Joshua in 2021 and again in 2022, taking away Joshua’s titles and exposing further limitations in AJ’s adaptability and ring IQ. These defeats shifted Joshua from being the top man in the division to a contender trying to rebuild.

Since then, Joshua has been rebuilding under new trainers, returning to basics while maintaining hopes of a mega-fight with Tyson Fury or a third crack at world title glory. A fight against Makhmudov would fit into this narrative — high-risk, high-reward, and possibly his final push toward reclaiming the heavyweight throne.

Arslanbek Makhmudov: The Dark Horse of the Heavyweights

Arslanbek Makhmudov, nicknamed “The Lion,” is a Russian-born Canadian-based heavyweight who has built a fearsome reputation with his raw power and imposing physicality. Standing 6'5" and weighing around 260 pounds, Makhmudov boasts an intimidating presence in the ring, reminiscent of heavy hitters like George Foreman or Sonny Liston.

Born in 1989 in Russia’s North Caucasus region, Makhmudov had a decorated amateur career before moving to Montreal and turning professional in 2017. His rise through the heavyweight ranks has been steady but relatively quiet on the global stage, partly due to the lack of marquee opponents and international exposure.

However, Makhmudov has compiled an impressive record, with most of his wins coming by knockout in the early rounds. His aggressive, forward-pressing style and devastating right hand have earned him comparisons to some of the most dangerous punchers in recent memory. Though still largely untested against the elite tier of heavyweights, Makhmudov’s power and durability make him a serious threat.

His fight scheduled for October 11, 2025, against British journeyman Dave Allen is seen as a tune-up or showcase bout. If victorious, a high-profile fight with Joshua becomes a logical next step in his quest to break into the elite level and earn a title shot.

Why This Fight Matters

A bout between Anthony Joshua and Arslanbek Makhmudov would represent more than just another heavyweight clash. It symbolizes two contrasting career arcs:

Joshua, the polished champion-turned-contender, seeking redemption and legacy.

Makhmudov, the rising powerhouse, looking to break through into boxing's upper echelon.

For Joshua, this fight could be a dangerous crossroads. Makhmudov’s brute strength and aggression pose a threat to any fighter, especially one whose chin and stamina have been questioned in recent bouts. But AJ’s superior technique, experience, and athleticism could neutralize Makhmudov’s power if he fights with the discipline shown in his rematch with Ruiz or his recent performances under new trainers.

For Makhmudov, this is a make-or-break moment. A win over Joshua would immediately catapult him into world title contention and make him a legitimate threat to the likes of Tyson Fury or Usyk. A loss, however, could expose his one-dimensional style and send him back to the drawing board.

What the Fans Can Expect

Should this fight be confirmed for early or mid-2026, fans can expect a dramatic buildup and a clash of styles:

Joshua will likely box at range, using his jab and combinations to control the pace.

Makhmudov will aim to close the distance and land heavy shots early.

Both men possess the kind of punching power that can end the fight at any moment. The atmosphere would be electric, especially if held in a major venue like London’s O2 Arena, Wembley, or even in the Middle East, where Joshua has fought multiple times.