I’m so excited my next fight’s in Cardiff – Joshua
It has been officially confirmed that Anthony Joshua’s next world title defence will take place at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on October 28.
He will face the IBF’s mandatory challenger Kubrat Pulev in a bout that was always on the cards since Wladimir Klitschko announced his retirement from boxing in August.
Joshua and Klitschko were set for a rematch after their Wembley epic, a fight that looked destined to take place in Las Vegas.
But when the Ukrainian hung up his gloves, the IBF ordered Joshua to face Pulev next or face being stripped of his belt.
It has long been mooted that a fight against the Bulgarian would take place in the Welsh capital but it has been officially confirmed by the defending IBF and WBA world champion.
“October 28 can’t come soon enough,” said Joshua.
“I have been eager to get back in the ring since Wembley and now we are confirmed and ready.
“I’ll be locked away focusing on fight number 20 for the next eight weeks. I am excited to experience the atmosphere in a sold-out Principality Stadium and aim to give the fans a spectacular night.”
Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn added: “I’m delighted that we will be in Cardiff at the magnificent Principality Stadium for the next step of the AJ journey.
“Nearly 80,000 will gather on October 28 to create another unforgettable night of boxing.”
Pulev, whose only defeat came in his last world title bout against Wladimir Klitschko – a fifth round knockout in 2014 – was in confident mood ahead of his trip to Cardiff.
“Anthony Joshua is a great and dangerous rival.
“But his style fits perfectly on mine,” said Pulev.
“Boxing styles dictate the bout. In this battle, there won’t be many hugs, there will be strong boxing.
“My preparations are very intense for the short time I have.
“I’ll be completely ready when I get in the ring. So he doesn’t stand a chance against me.”
The fight will take place at the Principality Stadium, which is owned and operated by the WRU, two weeks before Wales begin their autumn international series against Australia.
The arena has hosted big nights of boxing before, most notably when Welshman Joe Calzaghe fought there twice in 2007.
Mark Williams, the stadium’s General Manager said: “Our national stadium is a true Heavyweight when it comes to bringing major events to Cardiff and today’s announcement strengthens our status as a yearround, multi-events arena, in the heart of a city centre renowned for delivering a Welsh welcome to visitors from around the world.
“2017 is undoubtedly our greatest year of events and we’re thrilled to be working with Matchroom Boxing to raise the bar yet again with the stadium’s fourth boxing event, and the first under the Principality Stadium name. We will continue to work with all our city centre partners in the coming weeks.”
Ticket information will be released on Thursday.