Italian heavyweight boxer Guido Vianello has thrown down the gauntlet to Anthony Joshua, calling for a “world-changing” showdown at Rome’s iconic Colosseum.
The 31-year-old, who stands at 6ft 6in, said a fight between him and the former two-time world champion in the ancient amphitheatre would make history as the first-ever boxing event held at the legendary site.
“I’d love to fight Anthony Joshua — and I want it to happen in the Colosseum,” Vianello told Uncrowned. “It’s not just a fight; it’s something that can change the world. There’s never been a bout there before, and we need a big name like AJ to make it happen.”
Vianello added that he’s open to fighting Joshua anywhere — from London to Riyadh — but that a Colosseum spectacle would carry unique global appeal.
Built nearly 2,000 years ago between AD 70 and 80, the Colosseum once hosted gladiator duels and animal hunts. It remains one of the world’s most visited landmarks.
In 2023, UFC president Dana White attempted to host a mixed martial arts match between tech billionaires Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk at the venue, but the plan fell through.
Saudi Arabia’s boxing organisers have also reportedly considered hosting a major card at the Colosseum, along with other landmark venues like the Eiffel Tower and Alcatraz Prison.
Joshua, 36, has been out of the ring since suffering a knockout loss to Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in September 2024. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, recently revealed plans for a tune-up fight before pursuing a domestic clash with Tyson Fury.
Meanwhile, heavyweight contender Arslanbek Makhmudov — who defeated Dave Allen earlier this year — has also challenged Joshua, saying he’s already received the Briton’s word for a future fight.
“Anthony Joshua, where are you? I’m coming for you,” Makhmudov said. “He promised me we’d fight next year — and I’m ready.”
Joshua is expected to return to the ring in 2026 after a long recovery from injuries. Potential future matchups include a long-awaited fight with Fury or a third bout with Ukrainian champion Oleksandr Usyk, who beat him twice in 2021 and 2022.
