- Kingsley Ibeh wants to face Anthony Joshua in Nigeria, describing it as a dream come true for both fighters and fans.
- The Nigerian-born heavyweight has won 11 consecutive fights since 2021, including a knockout victory over Gerald Washington.
- Ibeh says he would fight Joshua anywhere, even in the UK, insisting he can stop him in the ring.
- Promoter Eddie Hearn hinted that Anthony Joshua could return to the ring later this year or in early 2026.
Heavyweight boxer Kingsley Ibeh has expressed strong interest in fighting Anthony Joshua, insisting the bout should take place in Nigeria. Ibeh, who was born in Nigeria but now resides in Arizona, believes he is the ideal opponent for Joshua’s potential return to Africa.
Speculation has been building that Joshua may stage a comeback fight on the continent, with Ghana and Nigeria among the top destinations being considered. Ibeh, boasting a record of 16 wins, two losses, and one draw, with 14 of those victories coming by knockout has not hidden his desire to make the fight happen.
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Since his 2021 defeat to top prospect Jared Anderson, the 6’4” power puncher has enjoyed an impressive streak of 11 straight wins, most recently stopping former world title challenger Gerald Washington in just three rounds.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Ibeh said, “We need the right platform and the right opponent to make a statement, and there’s no better one than AJ. That would be a dream come true, especially if it happens in Nigeria.”
He added that he is willing to fight anywhere if the opportunity arises. “It doesn’t matter where it takes place; Nigeria, the UK, or anywhere else. I would love to share the ring with him at the O2 Arena. I’ll definitely stop him; it’s just a matter of how soon.”
A cousin of former heavyweight contender Ike Ibeabuchi, Ibeh’s journey to boxing was unconventional. He originally played American football before finding his way into the sport by accident while trying to sell life insurance to a boxing coach.
“The trainer told me I had to spar one of his guys if I wanted to talk to him,” Ibeh recalled. “I went in there, gave it my all, and ended up knocking the guy out.”
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Despite holding great respect for Joshua, whom he described as his idol, Ibeh says he’s ready to test himself against the former world champion. “I like AJ, but this is boxing. I have mean intentions, and I’d love to give him the challenge he’s looking for,” he said.
Meanwhile, Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, revealed that the two-time heavyweight champion could return to the ring before the end of this year or early next year. “If he fights this year, it’ll just be a run-out fight. We’re still deciding, but he’s eager to stay active,” Hearn said.
