Boxing: Anthony Joshua to fight Alexander Poevtkin on September 22 at Wembley Stadium

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Anthony Joshua will step back into the ring for the first time in sixth months since on September 22nd. Joshua will defend his World Heavyweight Titles against Alexander Povetkin at Wembley Stadium. 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.

Joshua will return to the scene where he faced Wladimir Klitschko in a Fight of the Year candidate that took place back in April of 2017. Joshua claimed the WBA title in an all-action firefight that saw him stop the legendary Klitschko in the 11th round in front of a post-war record crowd of 90,000 at England’s national stadium.

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring, the end of March feels a long time ago now,” said Joshua . “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 the breaking point to make sure I am in peak condition for another huge night for British boxing at Wembley Stadium on September 22nd.”

Povetkin last fought on Anthony Joshua’s undercard in March where he brutally knocked out David Price.

“The battle for the World title has always been my goal,” said Povetkin. “I fought for the moment to face the strongest in the World and on September 22 I get my opportunity. Anthony Joshua has four 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 breath-taking event.”

“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,” said Hearn. “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 3 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.”