Boxing fans react after Eddie Hearn reveals 'frontrunner' for Anthony Joshua's next fight

Boxing fans seem to be split over the news that Anthony Joshua's next fight could be against domestic rival Dillian Whyte.

Joshua beat Jermaine Franklin last weekend to return to the win column following back-to-back defeats to Oleksandr Usyk.

The 33-year-old outpointed the American as he secured a big win under his new trainer Derrick James.

Speaking after the event, Eddie Hearn mapped out Joshua's year as he eyed fight dates in July and December.

And it appears the Matchroom chief is eyeing an all-British showdown between Joshua and Whyte in July.

The Anthony Joshua vs Dillian Whyte rematch is the "frontrunner" for AJ's next fight in July, Eddie Hearn has declared. [@TheVolumeSports] pic.twitter.com/X3Rhx3I3ta

— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) April 7, 2023

They first fought as amateurs, with Whyte winning the contest. But 'AJ' exacted revenge in the professional ranks, securing a stopping finish in their 2015 bout.

A rematch in the professional arena is set for July, but some people aren't convinced with the fight.

One Twitter user wrote: "I think Dillian could bring out the beast in AJ. Could be crucial. But both at the mo, are in decline so could also be awful."

A second argued: "It's a good fight for both fighters especially for AJ to build himself up with his new trainer."

A third added: "I’d be happy to see that one again."

A fourth said: "Good match up. No complaints here."

Another commented: "No one wants to see this do they? again, another highly predictable outcome, Joshua mid to late stoppage."

Despite some scrutiny over Joshua vs. Whyte II, it could easily take place at Wembley Stadium - with Hearn plotting a summer date.

Whyte, who's also coming off a win over Franklin, wasn't impressed with Joshua's outing and claimed his former foe has lost all his 'aggression and killer instincts'.

He said: "Joshua has lost all his aggression and killer instincts. If he doesn't want to do it any more, I think he should stop."

Whyte added: "Every time Franklin shaped up like he was going to hit him, he hesitated. I've never seen him like that, he's a bit shell-shocked."

Do you want to see Joshua and Whyte run it back? Let us know.