Representatives from Anthony Joshua’s camp travelled to Ghana this week to evaluate the possibility of hosting a significant heavyweight contest on African soil.
Matchroom Boxing chief executive Frank Smith and the fighter’s manager Freddie Cunningham arrived in Accra on Tuesday to examine potential locations.
The Accra Sports Stadium is one that has been considered for a potential bout
|Getty
The British-Nigerian fighter has previously spoken about his ambition to stage a high-profile match in Africa, where his parents originate from.
French Olympic gold medallist Tony Yoka has emerged as a leading candidate for the African bout, with the heavyweight revealing that Joshua’s representatives had explored facilities in Ghana.
“A lot of people are talking about it, and it could generate enormous interest,” Yoka told L’Equipe. “If it comes to fruition, it will indeed be a huge event for African boxing.”
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Yoka claimed his camp had been informed about the Ghana reconnaissance mission, suggesting advanced discussions between the parties.
AJ underwent surgery on his elbow in May and has abandoned his initial plans for a December comeback.
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An early 2026 return now appears more realistic as he continues his rehabilitation following September’s knockout loss to Daniel Dubois at Wembley.
While the African bout remains under consideration, negotiations with YouTube personality Jake Paul continue, with promoter Eddie Hearn identifying the American as the leading candidate for Joshua’s next appearance.
Former champion Andre Ward has also surprisingly challenged Joshua to a contest, despite retiring in 2017 and never having competed in the heavyweight division.
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The potential African contest would fulfil a longstanding goal for the 2012 Olympic champion, who has frequently expressed his wish to showcase elite boxing on the continent.
His Nigerian heritage has fuelled this ambition to deliver a marquee event to African audiences.
The Accra venue inspection represents concrete progress towards realising this vision, with the stadium’s substantial capacity offering suitable infrastructure for a major heavyweight encounter.
Tuesday’s visit by Smith and Cunningham signals serious intent from Joshua’s team to explore all logistical requirements.