Former interim WBO heavyweight champ Joe Joyce recently returned to winning form by defeating Kash Ali in the 10th round. While the victory may not have been the most impressive, it was a much-needed win for the 38-year-old boxer after experiencing two tough losses to Zhilei Zhang. Now, Joyce is eager to continue his momentum and is eyeing his next potential opponents.
Big Dreams
Joyce expressed his desire to secure a spot on the undercard of the highly anticipated heavyweight unification bout between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk on May 18th. Additionally, there is speculation that Joyce could be part of a unique matchup between Queensbury and Matchroom fighters on June 1st. Eddie Hearn hinted at an exciting lineup for this event, promising fans that it will “blow your mind” once officially announced.
Potential Opponents
In an interview with IFL TV following his victory over Ali, Joyce disclosed the three fighters he is considering for his next bout. He mentioned a potential rematch with Joseph Parker, a showdown with Dillian Whyte, or a clash with Deontay Wilder. Joyce emphasized his eagerness to compete on major cards like the Fury-Usyk event, highlighting the exciting opportunities available in the boxing world.
A matchup between Joyce and Wilder would undoubtedly generate significant interest among fans, especially if Wilder decides to come out of retirement. With the backing of Turki Alalshikh, who has been instrumental in organizing high-profile fights, there is a possibility that this fight could materialize on a major card. Alternatively, fights against Whyte or Parker, either in the UK or the US, offer appealing options for Joyce as he looks to make a mark in the heavyweight division.
As Joyce enters the later stages of his career, he understands the importance of seeking out significant challenges to solidify his legacy in the sport. While Zhang may have proven to be Joyce’s toughest opponent thus far, there is still uncertainty about how he would fare against other elite heavyweights. Joyce acknowledges the need for big fights that will test his skills and showcase his capabilities to a wider audience.
Despite the ups and downs of his career, watching Joyce in action remains an exhilarating experience for boxing enthusiasts. Whether he competes in the Five Vs. Five card or the Fury-Usyk event, Joyce’s presence promises to deliver thrilling performances that captivate fans. With a renewed sense of determination and the drive to face top-tier opponents, Joe Joyce is gearing up for a future filled with exciting opportunities and challenging matchups. Stay tuned for more thrilling moments from “The Juggernaut” as he continues his quest for greatness in the world of boxing.