Anthony Joshua called out by TWO heavyweight rivals as Eddie Hearn reveals plans for comeback fights

Anthony Joshua’s planned comeback and calls from Arslanbek Makhmudov and Guido Vianello make AJ a likely short-priced favorite for a tune-up. Punters should consider value on Makhmudov—whose power makes an upset plausible—or Vianello as a live underdog. A February return points to lower-risk opponents before a Fury buildup, so expect limited betting value on AJ unless the opponent is top-ranked.

Anthony Joshua plots comeback as two heavyweights call him out

Anthony Joshua is back in training after his September 2024 knockout loss to Daniel Dubois. The former champion is being mapped toward a staged return: at least one lower-level comeback fight before a potential mega-bout with Tyson Fury targeted for later in 2026.

Rivals seize the moment

Arslanbek Makhmudov, 36, and Guido Vianello, 31, both used recent victories to publicly call for fights with Joshua. Makhmudov, fresh off a win over Dave Allen in Sheffield, declared: “Anthony Joshua, where are you? I’m coming for you. I’ve already spoken with him and he gave me his word that he will fight me next year. I’m ready.” His promoter, Camille Estephan, praised his performance and questioned whether Joshua could handle Makhmudov’s power.

Vianello, after beating Alexis Barriere in Philadelphia, issued his own challenge: “Now I want a big name. You want to know what big name I want? Anthony Joshua. I want him in front of me. Let’s fight in Rome, in The Coliseum, in London—whatever you want.”

Promoter strategy and timeline

Promoter Eddie Hearn has outlined a cautious blueprint: make sure Joshua is fully confident and physically ready for a possible showdown with Fury. Hearn indicated a comeback in the near term—potentially one fight in February or two lower-risk bouts ahead of a Fury buildup. Those tune-ups are expected to be against opponents outside the top tier to get Joshua active without derailing long-term plans.

Potential opponents and stakes

Makhmudov offers brute power and momentum, making him a dangerous matchmaking proposition even if he isn’t the flashiest name. Vianello represents a hungry, aging contender eager for a breakthrough. For Joshua, these fights would test ring rust, timing and ability to withstand heavy shots before ramping up to the Fury challenge.

Betting implications for punters

Expect Joshua to be a short-priced favorite for any planned tune-up. However, value can emerge on the challengers: Makhmudov’s one-punch power makes him a live upset candidate, while Vianello could be a worthwhile underdog for bettors seeking upside. A February comeback likely means lower-risk opponents, so outright betting on AJ may offer limited value unless the opponent is genuinely high-ranked. Consider round markets and method-of-victory props if seeking alternative angles.

What to watch next

Key developments to monitor: official fight announcements for February, confirmation of whether Joshua will take one or two tune-ups, and any formal agreements with Makhmudov or Vianello. Each signing will shift market prices and influence where value lies for bettors as the Fury timeline becomes clearer.

ANTHONY JOSHUA was called out by TWO heavyweight rivals on the same night as he closes in on his return to the ring.AJ is back training having been ou

The Sun