Matchroom’s hard work pays off as Anthony Joshua signs up

Anthony Joshua has committed his peak years to Matchroom by signing a three-year contract extension with the promoter.

The WBA, WBO and IBF heavyweight champion has become perhaps the world’s highest-profile fighter since making his professional debut with them in 2013 and next fights Alexander Povetkin at Wembley Stadium on September 22.

There had long been an expectation within boxing circles that Joshua would eventually sign for an American promoter – traditionally the most lucrative and influential – but his agreement with Matchroom is a further demonstration of British boxing’s growing power.

Matchroom has received significant investment to continue expanding into the US market with DAZN, while Joshua’s appeal – the fight with Russia’s Povetkin will be his fourth in succession at a stadium – means he has little incentive to fight elsewhere.

The 28-year-old said: “They’ve worked very hard to give me a platform to showcase my skills and tell my story, so choosing to renew our deal was always a matter of when not if.

“We have created history together and we are dedicated to keeping the UK scene in high demand for all boxers and boxing fans. But, for me personally, the journey is nowhere near finished.

“When I decided to become a professional boxer I felt the boxing market was stagnant and in need of new energy. Both Matchroom and Sky have backed me and given me opportunity after opportunity and I will always deliver.”

The World Boxing Super Series super-middleweight final between George Groves and Callum Smith will be held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on September 28.

In what will also be Groves’ third WBA title defence, Smith’s first world title fight, and both men’s chance to win the Muhammad Ali trophy, they will meet at the King Abdullah Sports City.

The 30-year-old defeated Jamie Cox in the competition’s quarter-finals in October, then Chris Eubank Jr in the final four in February.

Anthony Joshua has penned Matchroom extension agreement.