Anthony Joshua To Defend Title June 25 At O2 Arena

By Elliot Foster

Anthony Joshua will return to defend his IBF heavyweight championship on June 25 at O2 Arena, it was announced Thursday afternoon.

The newly crowned champion headlines at the very same venue at which he emphatically annexed the title in a 2nd round knockout of Charles Martin on April 9. His first defense - versus a yet-to-be-named opponent - will air live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK.

It is understood that talks are ongoing with several fighters from the sport’s glamour division, including former WBC titlist Bermane Stiverne as well as undefeated Dominic Brezeale and ex-world title challenger Eric Molina.

Joshua (16-0, 16KOs), a 26-year-old former two-time ABA champion and Olympic gold medallist revealed his plans via social media, posting a video to Twitter in which he told fans: “I’ve been speaking to my coach and I wanted the closest fight date possible because I’m feeling good.

“I can’t wait to get back in training camp and pick up where we left off, with a jam-packed undercard.

“I can’t wait to be back and I’m looking forward to performing for you guys again.”

Details on the undercard for Anthony Joshua’s first world title defence as well as relevant ticket information will be revealed by Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Sport in due course.