Anthony Joshua Declined Dana White's Boxing Venture Offer
Promoter Eddie Hearn has disclosed that heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua once rejected a surprising direct approach from UFC president Dana White. The mixed martial arts executive reportedly contacted Joshua personally in an effort to recruit him for his ambitious boxing project. This outreach occurred during a period when White was strategically expanding his influence into the professional boxing realm following the notable success of high-profile crossover fights.
Zuffa Boxing's Aggressive Market Entry
White's long-anticipated boxing initiative, Zuffa Boxing, officially launched in 2025. Since its inception, the organization has executed aggressive maneuvers within the boxing market. These strategic moves include securing significant signings such as rising star Conor Benn. Despite the substantial financial resources and ambitious vision backing the Zuffa Boxing project, Joshua demonstrated unwavering commitment to his longtime promoter Eddie Hearn. This decision showcased remarkable loyalty within a sport frequently dominated by financial considerations.
Joshua's Immediate Rejection and Honest Conversation
Eddie Hearn shared these details during an appearance on the Cigar Talk podcast, expressing initial shock when reports surfaced linking Anthony Joshua with Dana White. When Hearn directly questioned Joshua about these rumors, the former unified world heavyweight champion confirmed that White had indeed contacted him unexpectedly. However, Joshua clarified that he had no intentions of departing from his current team arrangement.
According to Hearn's account, Joshua made his position clear to White early in their discussion. While maintaining respectful dialogue, Joshua explicitly stated his commitment to Hearn as his promoter. Hearn later met with White personally and referenced this conversation. White acknowledged that Joshua had been remarkably transparent during their exchange, immediately declaring his loyalty to Hearn within moments of their discussion beginning.
History of Attractive Offers and Joshua's Consistent Loyalty
The promoter further explained that this was not the first instance where Joshua had received financially appealing offers from other parties. Over multiple years, several proposals emerged that appeared more lucrative in the short term. However, many of these opportunities included long-term contractual conditions that were not advantageous for Joshua's career trajectory.
Joshua consistently demonstrated minimal interest in these alternative offers, instead relying on Hearn to thoroughly evaluate and negotiate on his behalf. Hearn praised Joshua's exceptional loyalty, emphasizing how uncommon such dedication is within the boxing industry. He described Joshua as an individual who steadfastly supports people he trusts, both in professional business relationships and personal life connections.
Strategic Partnership and Current Status
This strong bond between fighter and promoter has played a crucial role in the growth and development of Matchroom Boxing. The relationship has proven so significant that Joshua eventually became a shareholder in the promotional company, further solidifying their partnership. Anthony Joshua, now thirty-six years old, has not competed professionally since his victory over Jake Paul last year. His boxing future remains uncertain following a tragic personal accident in Nigeria that profoundly impacted him emotionally.
