Anthony Joshua. Image via: Netflix
Eddie Hearn has revealed that heavyweight star Anthony Joshua once turned down a surprise approach from Dana White. The UFC boss had reportedly reached out to Joshua directly in an attempt to bring him into his boxing venture.
This came during a time when White was planning to expand his influence into the boxing world after the success of crossover fights.White’s long-awaited boxing project, Zuffa Boxing. He finally launched it in 2025. Since then, it has made aggressive moves in the market. This includes signing big names like Conor Benn. However, despite the financial power and ambition behind the project, Joshua remained committed to his long-time promoter Hearn.
He showed rare loyalty in a sport often driven by money.
Anthony Joshua stayed loyal despite Dana White’s big offer
Eddie Hearn shared on the Cigar Talk podcast that he was initially shocked when reports emerged linking Anthony Joshua with Dana White. When he asked Joshua about it, the former world champion confirmed that White had contacted him out of nowhere. However, Joshua made it clear from the beginning that he had no intention of leaving his current team. He told White early in their conversation that he was committed to Hearn, although he was open to having a respectful discussion.
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Hearn later met White and brought up the conversation. According to him, White admitted that Joshua had been very upfront. Within moments of speaking, Joshua had clearly stated his loyalty to Hearn. This honesty impressed both men and helped maintain mutual respect.The promoter also explained that this was not the first time Joshua had received attractive offers. Over the years, there were several deals that looked financially better in the short term.
However, many of them came with long-term conditions that were not ideal. Joshua never showed serious interest in those offers and instead trusted Hearn to review them.Hearn praised Joshua for his loyalty, saying it is rare in boxing. He added that Joshua is someone who stands by people he trusts, both in business and in life. This bond has played a key role in Matchroom’s growth, with Joshua even becoming a shareholder in the company.Joshua, now 36, has not fought since his win over Jake Paul last year. His future remains uncertain after a tragic accident in Nigeria that deeply affected him personally.
