As previously reported on BoxingScene.com, Anthony Joshua will defend his World Boxing Association, World Boxing Organization, International Boxing Organization and International Boxing Federation heavyweight titles against Russia's Alexander Povetkin at London's Wembley Stadium on September 22.
Povetkin is the mandatory challenger for Joshua's WBA title and a successful bout against the Russian would give the London 2012 Olympic champion greater freedom to choose his next opponent.
Joshua had been hoping to fight fellow unbeaten heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder, who holds the World Boxing Council belt, but he could yet face the American in April 2019.
Joshua, 28, won his first world title in 2016 and has made five defences, taking his record to 21-0 with 20 knockouts.
Meanwhile Povetkin, 38, knocked out David Price on the undercard of Joshua's victory over Parker. He previously fought for the titles Joshua now holds in a 2013 defeat by Wladimir Klitschko.
That was the last time where Povetkin, also an Olympic gold medal winner, tasted defeat.
Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn added: "Last time (Joshua) was there (at Wembley against Klitschko, in April 2017) he produced one of the most dramatic fights and endings in the history of the sport, and I expect this fight to be full of energy and drama.
"Povetkin is a top-three heavyweight and extremely dangerous but in AJ I see the best heavyweight in the world and I think we will see a major statement."
Povetkin’s promoter Andrey Ryabinskiy commented and he believes his boxer has a very strong chance for the upset: “The fight between Joshua and Povetkin is one of the biggest fights that can happen in the heavyweight division today! This is a colossal battle of two Olympic champions and it is sure to be an unforgettable night of boxing. I am delighted that Alexander is getting his chance to not only become a world champion again, but to challenge for the throne of the super-heavyweight division.”
