Potential Bout Between Joshua and Yoka Discussed

According to recent international media reports, former European champion Spencer Oliver suggests that a match between Anthony Joshua and Tony Yoka, a former Olympic gold medalist, is highly probable.

Joshua is planning his return to the boxing ring after suffering an injury-related defeat to Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in September 2024. His comeback was initially slated for the summer but faced delays due to an elbow injury. He is now recuperated after healing.

Prior to the Dubois setback, ‘AJ’ had secured impressive knockout victories against Otto Wallin, Robert Helenius, and Francis Ngannou. He is currently focused on recapturing his previous dominant form.

Joshua has been mentioned as a potential opponent for figures such as Jake Paul, the YouTuber-turned-boxer, and Deontay Wilder. He has also repeatedly expressed his desire to face Tyson Fury.

In a recent interview, Oliver addressed the potential Joshua-Yoka matchup, stating, “I think that is a great possibility. We get two Olympic gold medalists going at it. Tony Yoka is trying to rekindle his career.”

Oliver elaborated, “He went through a bad patch losing to the likes of Carlos Takam. He’s won his last three now. He last boxed in May. He’s very much on a rebuild as is AJ, doesn’t it makes sense, two Olympic medalist going at it. It would be a great fight, a sellable fight, and I’d love to see it.”

Yoka, a French heavyweight boxer, earned a gold medal at the 2016 Olympics and began his professional career in 2017.

After turning professional, he achieved wins against opponents like Dave Allen, Christian Hammer, and Johann Duhapas. However, he then experienced three consecutive losses to Martin Bakole, Takam, and Ryad Merhy.

Yoka has since revitalized his career and is on a three-fight winning streak.