Controversial heavyweight boxer Jarrell Miller has made bold predictions regarding Anthony Joshua’s potential rematch with Daniel Dubois, who recently knocked Joshua out in a high-profile bout at Wembley Stadium. Miller asserted that if Joshua pursues a rematch in 2025, the outcome will likely result in another knockout defeat for the British-Nigerian fighter. Following Joshua’s fifth-round loss to Dubois, which marked his fourth professional defeat, Miller expressed that he believes Joshua’s chances for a comeback are slim. He stated, “Same outcome,” implying that Joshua’s performance would not improve in a second encounter, and he emphasized that the knockout could signify the end of Joshua’s career, given that the heavyweight is still a lucrative draw within boxing.
Miller’s remarks were sharp and critical, suggesting that the boxing community should take a closer look at Joshua’s vulnerabilities. He pointedly stated that Joshua’s inability to withstand heavy punches, referring to it as lacking “a chin” and “heart,” is a clear weakness that opponents may exploit. Miller further argued that before Joshua even considers a rematch with Dubois, he should fight Miller himself. This, he believes, is essential because another severe defeat would likely lead to Joshua’s retirement. Having previously been scheduled to fight Joshua in 2019 before failing a drug test, Miller has an ongoing rivalry with Joshua, which adds a layer of personal animosity to his critiques.
The ramifications of Joshua’s recent loss have been met with calls for his retirement from various figures in boxing. Notably, former world champion Prince Naseem Hamed expressed that Joshua should step back from the sport, acknowledging Joshua’s past achievements while suggesting that he has had his time in the limelight. Hamed’s comments represent a broader sentiment in the boxing community, where there is concern over Joshua’s performance and future, especially considering his string of losses. The criticism marks a shift in perception for Joshua, who has previously held the heavyweight title and enjoyed significant success throughout his career.
Despite the criticism, 34-year-old Joshua remains resolute about his desire to continue fighting. In a post-fight statement, he expressed a determination to persevere despite the recent setback, stating, “We took a shot, and we came up short. What are we going to do—walk away?” This resilient attitude signals that Joshua is not ready to bow out of the sport just yet, although some analysts and fans question the long-term sustainability of his boxing career following such defeats. The conversation around Joshua’s future in boxing is closely tied to how he manages his next steps, especially concerning potential matchups that could reinvigorate his standing in the division.
Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has identified the immediate options for Joshua’s next fight, initially indicating that a rematch with Dubois was a top priority. However, Hearn has since hinted at a potential bout against Tyson Fury, a fight that could attract massive attention in the boxing world. Hearn articulated the frustrations of potentially overlooking a major opportunity to face Fury if they were to only focus on Dubois at this juncture. Instead, he suggested that they might be better served by considering the looming opportunity against Fury, particularly if Fury wins against Oleksandr Usyk.
On the other hand, Daniel Dubois has solidified his position in the heavyweight category following his impressive victory over Joshua. At just 25 years old, Dubois is poised to seize bigger opportunities in the boxing arena, building on the momentum gained from his win. The victory has not only boosted his career prospects but has also raised his profile in a competitive division, positioning him as a key player in discussions about future title fights. As the heavyweight landscape continues to evolve, the focus now shifts to how both Joshua and Dubois will navigate their respective paths moving forward, particularly amid the backdrop of rivalries and the potential for high-stakes matchups.
