Franklin fought Dillian Whyte at Wembley Arena in London, England on November 26, 2022.

On 6 February 2023, it was officially announced that Joshua would be returning to the ring on 1 April at The O2 Arena against Franklin.

In the first pre-fight press conference on 9 February, Joshua announced his new partnership with American trainer Derrick James, as well as being questioned by his promoter Eddie Hearn on his motivation for fighting.

Joshua won a comprehensive points victory with two judges scoring it 117–111 and third 118–111, giving him his first win in two years.

The sensible thing is to have another fight with Derrick James to improve; Dillian Whyte is a great option.