Anthony Joshua has claimed that boxing has become "complicated" due to factors outside of the ring but is hoping to return next year.
'AJ' was looking for revenge against Oleksandr Usyk back in August after months of waiting for his shot, but came up short, falling to a split-decision defeat in Saudi Arabia. After the final bell, Joshua showed signs of real frustration, storming out of the ring and launching into an X-rated rant, with the prospect of being frozen out of the heavyweight title picture looming large.
It was expected that Joshua could return in December, with a fight against Tyson Fury agreed, but the bout collapsed again as Joshua failed to honour the contract deadline. It was understood that the contract was close to be signed but was delayed due to ironing out more minor issues, including the broadcaster of the event.
Joshua has once again shown his frustration with the sport, admitting that it is hurting that he no longer stands as world heavyweight champion after losing his unified titles. He told DAZN: "My life is complicated. Boxing has become a bit complicated for me. But everyone is just trying to make the most of this time while I'm boxing and they're doing a good job.
"But it does affect my ring activity. So I'm just always trying to push that stuff away. It's a challenge. I'm just trying to get it out the way this year, so next year I can just focus. I'm not champion and it's just hurting a lot. So I'm in the gym rebuilding and restructuring everything I have to do inside and outside of the ring.
"There is a lot that goes on outside the ring in my life which makes my ring life complicated. So I just need to simplify a lot of stuff outside the ring and then I can put my full attention in the ring. And once I've got that done, next year I'll be ready."
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Joshua has been linked with a whole host of heavyweight fights since losing to Usyk, including a rematch against Dillian Whyte and a mega-fight with Deontay Wilder. It had been hoped that Joshua could have got out again before the end of 2022, but it appears his next outing will have to wait until next year.
However, the 33-year-old has admitted he is uncertain as to when his return will be and it could depend on the situation with his potential opponents. "I don't know [when I'll be back]," he continued. "I was supposed to be in the ring this year, I'm going to be in the ring next year.
"I'll be in the ring when I'm in the ring. I don't want to make statements today and then I'll get held to the cross. Do you know what I mean? When I'm ready, I'll be back in the ring."
