Joshua has four potential opponents and his return is finalized

Nigeria born former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua already has up to four potential opponents pencilled in - with his return date all-but finalised.

The former unified heavyweight champion has been out since August when he lost to Oleksandr Usyk for the second time.

And following failed talks with Tyson Fury, 34, in December, AJ took the rest of the year off to rest and recover.

It now leaves him primed for a comeback fight in April with promoter Eddie Hearn considering opponents.

Hearn told DAZN: “We are down to three or four opponents.

“He is ready to start camp and will likely start that camp this week. Honestly, I couldn’t give Anthony Joshua an opponent he will turn down.

"It’s all about putting together the right training team.”

Joshua, 33, is on the scout for a new training camp following consecutive losses to Usyk.

After the first, in September 2021, Joshua parted ways with long-time cornerman Rob McCracken, who led him to gold in the amateurs and pros.

He replaced McCracken with esteemed US mastermind Garcia, but following rematch defeat by Usyk, 35, the two have now also split.

It leaves Joshua heading back to the drawing board ahead of his return, which could pave the way for a three-fight 2023.

Hearn said: “He wants to return to return with a Top 15 guy.

“Then in the summer probably versus Dillian Whyte and then a mega-fight with Deontay Wilder.

“The plan now is to rebuild him to become a three-time heavyweight world champion.

"It's all very well being brave, listening to Twitter, going out and fighting Deontay Wilder. But there has to be a plan, a smart plan.”