Anthony Joshua needs more learning fights before a big domestic clash with David Haye, according to Carl Froch.

The exciting heavyweight came through the toughest test of his career against Dillian Whyte, recovering from a torrid second round before knocking out his bitter rival with a big uppercut, live on Sky Sports Box Office.

Haye, working as a Sky Sports expert, praised Joshua for passing a 'gut check' while battling to his 15th straight stoppage win.

But fellow pundit Froch feels the 26-year-old should gain more experience by defending his British and Commonwealth titles.

Asked about a future Joshua-Haye clash, Froch said: "Of course I would like to see it. David is an explosive puncher and he's got fast hands. I think it's really exciting.

"But if I'm looking at Joshua, I'm looking at that fight and I'm thinking now I'm British champion. He's not been a professional for very long really, he's on the fringe of doing something on the world scene. Why not defend it?

"The problem with the heavyweight division is - who do you put him in with? Because there is such a gulf in class from the bottom 10 to the top 10, it's just dangerous.

"We're looking at him tonight, he's been caught on the chin, he showed a wobble but he's shown how to come through a wobble and shown the grit and determination and the fitness that you need at world level. But I would not like to pick his next opponent."

Haye felt that Joshua was forced to show his heart against the equally spirited opponent and gave him credit for his performance.

"He really had to dig deep, we've never seen him have to dig at all," said the former WBA heavyweight champion. "He's just gone through the motions.

"He hasn't had to dig deep and he proved to me he's got a heart and he's passed a gut check."

Former world champion Paulie Malignaggi, another member of the Sky Sports panel, also felt that Joshua is not yet ready to face the experienced Haye.

"Guys like David Haye, that are their strengths - timing and speed," said Malignaggi.

"I don't think that Joshua is ready for that kind of level yet but at the same time, the Dillian Whyte kind of level, which is obviously step-up from the level he's been on, maybe keep him for two or three more fights. See what you can get out of him."