Anthony Joshua IBF title defence set for June 25 at O2

By Pascal Lemesre, Football League Editor | 21 April 2016

Anthony Joshua will make the first defence of his IBF world heavyweight title on June 25 in London, with his opponent to be announced at a later date.

IBF heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua will defend his title for the first time on June 25 at The O2.

The 26-year-old became a world champion for the first time earlier this month by knocking out American Charles Martin in the second round.

Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn initially suggested that the Olympic champion would fight on July 9, the same night as Tyson Fury and Wladimir Klitschko's rematch, but it has now been moved two weeks earlier.

In a video posted on his Twitter account, Joshua promised a "jam-packed undercard", also telling promoters Matchroom: "If there is a date to get in your diary its June 25th – first title defence, The O2.

"Opponent to be announced but I just spoke to coach and I told him I am feeling great and I can't wait to get back into camp. I want to be active so that is why I chose the closest date. I appreciate you guys and I can't wait to see you again and put on a great performance."

Joshua is expected to fight one of the top-15 ranked IBF heavyweights, with Bermane Stiverne, Eric Molina and Dominic Breazeale among those who could possibly challenge the Londoner.