Arslanbek Makhmudov could land a blockbuster showdown with Anthony Joshua if he can get through Dave Allen first.
Makhmudov is set to meet Allen on Saturday night at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena in a must-win fight.
2
Makhmudov squares off against Allen on Saturday in SheffieldCredit: Getty
The towering 6ft 5in Russian was once considered to be one of the most exciting up-and-comers in the glamour division.
However, defeats to Agit Kabayel and Guido Vianello have seen his stock plummet.
A loss to Allen would be catastrophic for Makhmudov’s ambitions, and perhaps more importantly, his future paydays.
Joshua is currently on the lookout for an opponent as he gears up for a return to the ring in early 2026.
And according to Makhmudov, the Watford powerhouse agreed to face him via Instagram direct message, providing he gets his hand raised 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.”
When is Anthony Joshua set to return to the ring?
Joshua hasn’t set foot in the ring since his devastating knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September.
Surgery on a lingering elbow injury has meant that he only recently returned to full training.
2
Joshua has been out of action since his defeat to Dubois last SeptemberCredit: Mark Robinson/MatchroomMeet Dave Allen’s terrifying opponent who wrestlers bears and takes sledgehammers to the gut
However, plans are in place for him to box again in either January or February.
AJ’s handlers are currently fielding offers from Nigeria and Ghana to play host to his comeback fight, while Eddie Hearn insists there are 10 names in the running to face his client.
Makhmudov hasn’t been expressly mentioned as a potential dance partner by Joshua’s team, although Allen, who is also promoted by Hearn, recently told SecondsOut: “I think he [Joshua] will box Makhmudov if he beats me.
“But if I win, I don’t think I will box Joshua. I think that is what will happen.
“I think Makhmudov would, but I wouldn’t. I don’t know [why]. That’s just what I have heard.
“I’m trying to give you a scoop. Makhmudov is a much scarier-looking guy than me and obviously a bit more of a threat.”