Assuming he overcomes former world title challenger Carlos Takam on July 24, Joe Joyce would like to fight ex-Team GB colleague and sparring partner Anthony Joshua.
Joyce (12-0, 11 KOs) is currently rated No.2 by the WBO and could be elevated to mandatory challenger status after reigning champion Joshua’s clash with current No.1 contender Oleksandr Usyk in September.
British, Commonwealth and European heavyweight champion Joyce has expressed a preference to face WBO, WBA Super and IBF belt holder Joshua in a future world title fight.
“We’ve had lots of good, competitive rounds in the ring. It’s a good fight, a 50-50 fight,” said Joyce. “My footwork, punch variety, punch durability [can pose problems]. Also I’ve got punch power as well so I can trouble him.
“Credit to Joshua though, he’s a great fighter. He’s got a good defence, has high punch output and he puts them together well. He’s got good uppercuts. He’s a strong guy, so it’ll be a tough fight.
“I look forward to the opportunity to punch him up,” quipped a light-hearted Joyce.
But Joyce must first deal with seasoned Cameroonian contender Takam (39-5-1, 28 KOs) at the SSE Arena, Wembley, next month.
“[Takam] is coming to throw a spanner in the works but I’m not going to let that happen,” he said. “It’s going to be a tough fight but I think it’s something I can overcome. It’s exciting and this is why I’m in boxing.
“I’m going to deal with Takam and then go on to win a world title and become a world champion. That’s what I’m aiming for.”
Main image: Queensberry Promotions.