The two-time world heavyweight champion was already returning to increasingly intense training, but suffered a back injury and had to pause for about eight weeks to recover. Only after that will Joshua be able to resume training camp. So for now, August is probably the earliest date for his possible return.
"Nothing serious, but the injury means that AJ is not yet ready to return to a normal, strong camp," said his promoter Eddie Hearn, who also added that he needs about eight weeks of rest and that he will not return until the end of the summer.
Recall that Joshua last appeared in the ring in September, when he was knocked out in the fifth round by IBF champion Daniel Dubois (22-2, 21 KOs).