Speculation over a long-anticipated heavyweight clash between Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder has resurfaced, with Matchroom Boxing signaling renewed interest in staging the blockbuster bout.

The proposed showdown—once billed as a potential unification fight back in 2018 and 2019—failed to materialize when both fighters held versions of the heavyweight titles. However, years later, the fight remains a major talking point in boxing circles.

Frank Smith, CEO of Matchroom Boxing, confirmed in a recent interview with Boxing News that the fight is still on their radar, depending on the outcome of Wilder’s upcoming bout.

“If he comes through his warm-up—Deontay Wilder—it’s a fight everyone still wants to see,” Smith said.
“Boxing thrives on narrative, and this one still captures the imagination, even if it didn’t happen five years ago.”

Wilder, now 39, is set to face Tyrrell Herndon in Kansas on June 27. The former WBC champion has lost four of his last five fights, with defeats to Tyson Fury, Joseph Parker, and most recently Zhilei Zhang. Despite this dip in form, Wilder remains a powerful draw in the division. A win later this month could revive talks for a bout with Joshua.

Meanwhile, Anthony Joshua has been recovering from elbow surgery and is expected to return to action in the autumn. Reports suggest discussions are underway with Riyadh Season organizers over a potential two-fight deal, with names like Jared Anderson floated as possible opponents. Fellow Brit Dillian Whyte, once considered a strong contender, is now expected to face Moses Itauma in August.

Speaking with BoxingScene, Smith hinted that Wilder may now be the leading option.

“I personally like the Deontay Wilder fight. There's a lot of history and drama there,” he said.
“AJ is still the biggest commercial draw in boxing, but this is a pivotal career decision—we need to get it right.”

Smith emphasized that Joshua’s full recovery remains the top priority before any final decisions are made.

“He needs to be 100 percent. Once he's back in the gym and fully fit, we’ll move forward,” he added.