Anthony Joshua Backed to Make MMA Transition After Boxing Setback

Anthony Joshua has been tipped to successfully transition from boxing to mixed martial arts, with UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev backing the former heavyweight champion to thrive in the cage.

Joshua, who is currently recovering from a serious car crash on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway last December that claimed the lives of two of his close friends, has resumed light training but remains uncertain about his return to the ring.

His recovery has delayed plans for a March comeback and a potential September showdown with Tyson Fury.

The British-Nigerian star recently attended a Professional Fighters League (PFL) MMA event in Dubai, where he spent time backstage with UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov.

Makhachev, speaking to Arena Fight TV, praised Joshua’s striking ability and suggested that with improved wrestling, he could be a force in MMA.

‘This guy is huge with very good striking — he’s one of the best boxers in the world. If this big guy improved his wrestling, can you imagine how good he’d be in MMA?’ Makhachev said.

Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, admitted that the crash had disrupted the fighter’s career trajectory and cast doubt on whether he will fight again.

‘Before this terrible incident we were geared up to fight in March and then fight Tyson Fury. Obviously, that is not happening now and I don’t know if it will ever happen right now,’ Hearn explained.

He added that Joshua remains passionate about boxing but is still some way from returning to full training.