Anthony Joshua’s return fight next year could be against Arslanbek Makhmudov, the towering Russian who trains for his fights by wrestling bears and taking sledgehammer shots to the gut.

 

Joshua has not fought since his knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September last year.

 

In the 12 months away from the ring, the former Olympian has undergone elbow surgery with hopes he and Tyson Fury can still meet in a long overdue Battle of Britain.

 

But after an extended period out of the ring, the two-time heavyweight champion is expected to return against a lower-key opponent in early 2026.

 

Makhmudov is one of the most fearsome-looking fighters operating in the heavyweight division, fighting his way to 18 straight victories until he was halted by Agit Kabayel in December 2023.

 

Standing at 6ft 5in, Makhmudov is a terrifying prospect.

 

Footage on Makhmudov’s Instagram account shows the giant grappling with a bear, also having members of his team take turns hitting him in the stomach with sledgehammers as part of his conditioning training.

 

Speaking ahead of fight night on Saturday, Allen told Seconds Out he believes Makhmudov has been identified as Joshua’s next opponent if he beats him.

 

Asked why the opportunity to fight Joshua might not come his way even in the event of putting away the big Russian, Allen added: “Because Makhmudov is a much scarier looking guy than me. He might look more of a threat. That’s what I think happens if the result goes that way.”

 

Makhmudov has also been in contact with Joshua, claiming the two have agreed a fight if he leaves Sheffield with a win this weekend.

 

“I hope I will get a good opportunity with the next win,” he told talkSPORT.com. “By the way, Joshua told me on Instagram that if I win this fight, then I will fight with him. He said next year we can do it, Inshallah.”