Anthony Joshua recently added the WBO world heavyweight title to his previously attained collection of the IBF, IBO and WBA world heavyweight championship titles.
He has made it known that his goal is to unify all the titles in the heavyweight division. Joshua hopes to achieve the rare undisputed champion status.
On the undercard of his victory against Joseph Parker at The Principality Stadium in Cardiff. Alexander Povetkin secured his position as mandatory challenger to Anthony Joshua’s WBA world heavyweight title.
He emphatically knocked out David Price in round 5 of their fight in Cardiff to secure that mandatory position.
But the 21-0 Anthony Joshua is hopeful that his mandatory obligations can be put off for the time being, so that he can focus on his aspirations of becoming undisputed in a clash with ‘The Bronze Bomber’ Deontay Wilder.
“I’d rather fight Wilder so if Povetkin can wait some time in 2019, that would be ideal,” the 28-year-old Joshua said.
“This is the issue when you hold more than one belt,” Joshua added.
“You have to abide by each of the governing bodies’ rules.”
Joshua says he wants to become undisputed so there is clarification that he is the standout fighter in the heavyweight division.
“Some people would prefer there be one belt and one heavyweight champion.”
“That is what we are working towards, wanting to fight Wilder.”
“But each belt comes with eliminators and who you have to fight next, and Povetkin is one of them.”
Joshua was quick to add, however, that if he is forced into a position where he must fight Povetkin next to keep hold of the WBA belt. ‘AJ’ will do it with no qualms.
“Hopefully he can be patient. But, if not, I don’t think it would make sense giving up this belt so if I have to fight Povetkin then so be it.”
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