Anthony Joshua is set to face what seems like his greatest challenge yet against mandatory challenger,
Alexander Povetkin, on
September 22 at Wembley Stadium in London.
Head-To-Head
Both Olympic Gold medalists will go head to head for the first time in a fight that promises to be more thrilling than Joshua’s past bouts in London. Match-room Boxing promoter, Eddie Hearn, who made the announcement on Monday, is positive that this fight will push AJ to his limits:
“I can’t wait to return to Wembley on September 22 for what I believe will be one of the biggest tests of AJ’s career.
“Last time he was there 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 today and I think we will see a major statement.
“It will be another huge night for British boxing with major championship fights on the card and another one of those special nights and atmospheres that will be watched by millions all around the world”
— Hearn
Is AJ Ready?
Povetkin, 38, has had 34 fights (24 KOs), with his only defeat against Klitschko who knocked him down four times in a fierce bout in Moscow, 2013.
Since then he has failed to make any huge statements in the boxing scene. The Russian was a mandatory challenger for
Deontay Wilder’s belt and a fight was set for May 2016 in Moscow, but it was canceled due to one of Povetkin’s failed drug tests. On December 17th 2016, Povetkin was scheduled to fight Bermane Stiverne for the interim WBC World heavyweight title and another chance to become mandatory challenger for Wilder, however hours before the fight Povetkin tested positive for Ostarine (performance enhancing drug) and Bermane called the fight off.
Povetkin, who is known for his inside pressure fighting skill and power punches, is very excited to meet Joshua in the ring, as he stated in a news release:
“The battle for the world title has always been my goal,I fought for the moment to face the strongest in the world, and on September 22, I get my opportunity. Anthony Joshua has [three major] belts, 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.”
— Povetkin
I am Ready!!
Despite all the facts lining up against him, Joshua (21-0, 20 KOs), 28, is not deterred one bit as he looks forward to making a huge statement at the Wembley stadium come September 22nd.
“I can’t wait to get back in the ring; the end of March feels a long time ago now. 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 10 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 at Wembley Stadium.”
— Joshua
If Joshua defeats Povetkin, his next fight will be on April 13, which will also take place at the Wembley as part of the two-fight deal the boxing champ recently entered with the stadium.
