In a declaration that has sent ripples through the heavyweight boxing landscape, Arslanbek Makhmudov, the formidable `Lion`, has confidently asserted that a fight with former two-time unified world champion Anthony Joshua is on the cards for next year. This announcement comes hot on the heels of Makhmudov`s decisive victory over Dave Allen, a performance that undoubtedly sharpened his roar in the division.
Makhmudov`s Resurgence and the Sheffield Statement
Arslanbek Makhmudov, the 36-year-old Canadian-based Russian, delivered a commanding display in Sheffield, systematically outworking and outclassing Dave Allen. The scorecards of 117-109, 116-110, and 115-111 were a clear reflection of his dominance, with his powerful right hand being a persistent weapon. This win was more than just another notch on his belt; it was a crucial step in re-establishing his formidable reputation.
Following two prior defeats to Agit Kabayel and Guido Vianello, which had prompted questions about his durability and overall championship credentials, Makhmudov`s performance against Allen served as a potent answer. He demonstrated not just power but also composure, signaling that the `Lion` is ready to challenge the division`s elite.
The Instagram Pact: A Modern Boxing Deal?
Perhaps the most intriguing revelation, however, emerged from Makhmudov`s dressing room after the fight. The towering heavyweight divulged that a deal with Anthony Joshua is already in place, brokered, rather unconventionally, through Instagram. “I already have a deal with him. We spoke with him in Instagram,” Makhmudov stated. “He said, `Okay go fight with Dave Allen and [we] fight next year.` He confirmed. Now it’s his turn.”
“I already have a deal with him. We spoke with him in Instagram. He said, ‘Okay go fight with Dave Allen and [we] fight next year.’ He confirmed. Now it’s his turn.”
This candid glimpse into a potential high-stakes negotiation through social media offers a distinctly modern twist to boxing`s often opaque deal-making. While traditionally such arrangements involve a phalanx of promoters, managers, and legal teams, the idea of two top-tier heavyweights making a gentleman`s (or, perhaps, a lion`s) agreement over direct messages introduces an element of charming audacity. One can almost picture the emojis exchanged.
Anthony Joshua`s Crossroads
For Anthony Joshua, this purported agreement arrives at a pivotal moment in his career. The 35-year-old hasn`t stepped into the ring since his crushing loss to Daniel Dubois last year, a defeat that sparked further debate about his future at the elite level. A subsequent elbow surgery in May sidelined him, delaying his return. However, promoter Eddie Hearn has consistently indicated that `AJ` is now eager to return to action, with rumors even swirling about Matchroom`s first-ever show in Africa potentially featuring Joshua in a headline role later this year.
A fight with Makhmudov presents both opportunity and significant risk for Joshua. It offers a chance to reassert himself against a dangerous, powerful opponent, proving his mettle following a challenging period. Yet, Makhmudov`s heavy hands and renewed confidence make him a formidable hurdle, one that Joshua would need to navigate expertly to avoid further setbacks.
Implications for the Heavyweight Hierarchy
The heavyweight division is always a complex tapestry of ambition, power, and high-stakes drama. With Tyson Fury rumored to be contemplating a return to action in 2026, the long-anticipated all-British super-fight between “The Gypsy King” and “AJ” could yet resurface. Makhmudov`s emergence and his claim on Joshua`s next year plans could be seen as an attempt to decisively spoil such grand designs.
When asked about his approach should he face Joshua, Makhmudov’s response was characteristically direct and devoid of pretense: “I’m going to go for win like this night. I go for win, try to win [and] to make a good fight. I’m boxer. What am I gonna do? I’m gonna box.” Such simple, brutal honesty is often a hallmark of truly dangerous heavyweights.
As the boxing world awaits official confirmation and the ink to dry on more traditional contracts, Makhmudov`s Instagram-fueled declaration has certainly injected an unexpected dose of excitement into the heavyweight narrative. The prospect of Makhmudov, the resurgent `Lion`, clashing with Joshua, the former king seeking his throne, promises a compelling spectacle that could genuinely redefine both careers and reshape the division`s immediate future.
