Dogli Wilberforce
Anthony Joshua has sparked fresh debate across combat sports after suggesting he could one day step into mixed martial arts. The former unified heavyweight boxing champion made the comments during a recent appearance on the Mr. Verzace Podcast, where he discussed the growing trend of fighters crossing between different combat sports.
Joshua said he has noticed several MMA fighters entering boxing in recent years and questioned why a leading boxer has not made the opposite move. His remarks quickly drew attention from boxing and MMA fans, especially as crossover fights continue to attract large audiences worldwide.
The British star remains active in boxing and has major fights ahead. However, his comments have added another layer of interest to his future plans. While no MMA fight has been announced, the possibility of Anthony Joshua entering MMA has become a major talking point across the combat sports world.
Anthony Joshua Says MMA Crossover Could Be the Next Big Event
During the podcast, Joshua explained why the idea interests him.
“Believe me, I was thinking, why don’t I step over into one of their territories? They keep stepping into ours. I think that’ll be the next thing we want to see.”
Joshua also defended crossover contests between different combat sports. He described boxing as the “pinnacle of combat sport,” but added that matchups involving MMA, kickboxing, and boxing can work and should happen.
His comments come after several high-profile MMA fighters entered the boxing ring. Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou fought Joshua in March 2024, with Joshua winning by knockout. Other MMA stars, including Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz, have also competed in boxing events.
Joshua suggested that a boxer moving into MMA could generate the same level of attention and commercial success.
Anthony Joshua’s MMA Talk Highlights the Challenges of the Sport
Although Joshua’s physical attributes are widely respected, a transition to MMA would present significant challenges.
The 36-year-old stands 6-foot-6 and is known for his punching power, athletic ability, and speed. Those skills could make him dangerous during striking exchanges. However, MMA requires far more than stand-up fighting.
Wrestling, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, submissions, and ground control are central parts of MMA competition. These areas have traditionally been difficult for boxers making the switch.
Past examples highlight the challenge. Former boxing champion James Toney entered MMA in 2010 but lost to Randy Couture by first-round submission. Former boxer Holly Holm successfully transitioned to MMA and became a UFC champion, though her path remains one of the sport’s rare success stories.
Many fans responding online pointed to the strength of current heavyweight MMA competitors such as Jon Jones, Tom Aspinall, and Ciryl Gane, who combine striking with strong grappling skills.
Anthony Joshua Remains Focused on Boxing for Now
Despite the attention surrounding the Anthony Joshua MMA discussion, boxing remains his immediate priority.
Joshua is set to return to the ring on July 25, 2026, when he takes on Kristian Prenga in a Saudi-backed boxing event. Potential future boxing matchups, including a long-discussed fight with Tyson Fury, also remain part of the conversation.
No official plans for an MMA bout have been announced. A full-time move appears unlikely in the near future, but a special crossover event or exhibition fight cannot be ruled out.
Joshua has rebuilt momentum in recent years after losses to Oleksandr Usyk and remains one of boxing’s biggest names. He also secured a high-profile victory over Jake Paul, further strengthening his standing in the sport.
Whether his MMA comments were simply an interesting idea or the start of a serious plan remains unclear. For now, the suggestion alone has created significant discussion across boxing and MMA, with fans watching closely to see what comes next.
