Joshua to take on Povetkin at Wembley in September

Anthony Joshua will defend his WBA, WBO and IBF heavyweight titles against Alexander Povetkin at Wembley on 22 September.

Russia’s Povetkin is the mandatory challenger to his WBA title and, by fighting him, Joshua should secure greater freedom in selecting his next opponent.

The 28-year-old Briton has been in training while negotiations with WBC champion Deontay Wilder stalled, but could yet face the American in April 2019.

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring. The end of March feels a long time ago now,” said Joshua, who beat Joseph Parker by unanimous points decision in Cardiff on 31 March.

“Povetkin is a serious challenge that I will prepare meticulously for. He has serious pedigree and only a fool would underestimate what he brings to the table.

“Training hasn’t stopped for me, but the next ten weeks ahead will be intense both mentally and physically. I will push myself to breaking point to make sure I am in peak condition for another huge night for British boxing.”

Povetkin, 38, stopped David Price on the undercard of Joshua’s victory over Parker, having previously fought for the titles Joshua now holds in a 2013 defeat to Wladimir Klitschko.

“The battle for the world title has always been my goal,” Povetkin said. “I fought for the moment to face the strongest in the world and on 22 September I get my opportunity.

“Anthony Joshua has four belts [including the little-known IBO title] and I want them all. I’m glad that our fight will finally take place. The meeting of two Olympic champions in the ring is destined to be a breathtaking event.”

Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn added: “Last time [Joshua] was there [against Klitschko, in April 2017] he produced one of the most dramatic fights and endings in the history of the sport. Povetkin is a topthree heavyweight but, in AJ, I see the best heavyweight in the world.”