Carl Froch Urges Anthony Joshua to Retire After Recent Setbacks

Carl Froch, the former super middleweight world champion, has publicly stated that Anthony Joshua should consider retirement from boxing. Froch, never one to hold back his opinions, believes Joshua has achieved enough in the sport and risks damaging both his legacy and health if he continues fighting. His comments come at a time when Joshua’s career is already under heavy scrutiny following a knockout defeat to Daniel Dubois, surgery on his elbow, and a noticeable slide in the heavyweight rankings.

Froch’s Call for Retirement

Speaking on Joshua’s future, Froch argued that the former unified heavyweight champion no longer has the same edge that once made him a dominant force. In Froch’s view, Joshua has nothing left to prove after winning Olympic gold and securing multiple world titles. He added that continuing to fight could do more harm than good, particularly with younger heavyweights now emerging as major threats in the division.

Joshua’s Current Situation

Anthony Joshua’s career has been defined by high-profile victories and massive paydays, but recent years have been much more turbulent. His loss to Daniel Dubois in 2024 dealt a huge blow to his reputation, leading many to question if he remains at the elite level. Soon after, Joshua was forced to undergo elbow surgery, which sidelined him for months and delayed his comeback. The extended break has even resulted in his removal from heavyweight rankings due to inactivity, a symbolic indicator of how much ground he has lost.

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Will Joshua Continue Fighting?

Despite calls from Froch and other boxing figures to retire, Joshua himself has hinted that he is not ready to walk away. He has spoken about his desire to reclaim a world title and prove that he still belongs among the best heavyweights. Promoters have suggested that Joshua may have two or three fights left in his career, with potential opponents ranging from contenders like Martin Bakole to possible crossover bouts. However, whether he can realistically return to the top remains uncertain.

The Bigger Picture

Froch’s comments add weight to the growing conversation about Joshua’s long-term future. Retirement could allow him to protect his health and leave the sport with his accomplishments intact. On the other hand, continuing for a few more fights could give him a chance to end his career on a high, provided those bouts are carefully managed. With his financial security, brand endorsements, and global profile, Joshua has options beyond the ring if he decides to call it a day.