Former two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua will make his ring return against American Jermaine Franklin. The bout will be the first time in nearly seven years that Joshua, 33, has fought without a world title at stake. Joshua has not fought since his second straight loss to Ukraine's Oleksandr Usyk in a title rematch in Saudi Arabia last August. The fight will be shown live and exclusively on American streaming platform DAZN, with whom Joshua signed a five-year partnership. Joshua vs Franklin will be included in the £9.99 per month DAZN saver subscription, and the app is available on Smart TVs, games consoles, tablets and mobile.
When is the fight?
The fight is scheduled for Saturday, April 1
What time will it start?
Expect the ring walks for the main event to start around 10.30pm, possibly a little later depending on the duration of the undercard fights.
Where is it?
Joshua is fighting at London's 02 Arena for the first time since 2016, which was the scene of his first world title win over Charles Martin.
What is at stake for Joshua?
Joshua is trying to rebuild his career after consecutive defeats against Usyk, and is not giving up on the idea of reclaiming the heavyweight world title. Joshua has changed coaches and teamed up with Derrick James to help him rediscover his best form. Joshua has not won a fight since beating Kubrat Pulev in 2020.
What are the odds?
Anthony Joshua 1/12 Jermaine Franklin 6/1 Draw 25/1
"Mentally and physically I feel ready," said Joshua.“I am looking forward to stepping back into the ring on April 1st at The O2 London.” Joshua told DAZN. “Mentally and physically I feel ready. "I want to put on a show and impress my coach as he has high standards. Franklin has a good style & great attitude, which he has shown in recent fights." “I’m ready to show the world why it’s time for me to take my place at the top of the Heavyweight division,” said Franklin. “Joshua had his time. It’s my time to shock the world! This fight isn’t going to the judge’s card. I will have win number 22 come April 1. That ain’t no April Fool’s joke.”
