Anthony Joshua has warned Tyson Fury that he continues to improve ahead of their expected fights in 2021.
Joshua is set to fight the WBC champion next year, but first he must beat Kubrat Pulev, his IBF mandatory challenger, when the pair meet on 12 December.
Speaking on DAZN's "Off the Cuff," Joshua said it was unfair that Pulev was able to contest each of Joshua’s four belts when he had spent the best part of his career bringing them in over a series of fights.
“It’s been hard work holding onto these four. That’s why I’ve got to take Pulev seriously.
“It’s weird how boxing works. I’ve got to fight for each of these belts one by one, then Pulev gets to fight me one night. He's the IBF mandatory challenger, but I’ve got to put up my IBO, WBO, WBA [belts]. I can’t just put up my IBF and put these aside for one night.
“So I’ve gone and done all the hard work.”
The 31-year-old four-belt champion made it clear that he is set on fighting Fury next year to claim his WBC belt.
“I’ve got one more belt to collect and whoever has it, I’m keen to fight that person,” he explained.
“I was keen to fight the former champion last year and I’m still keen to fight the current champion this year and the year after.”
While looking to the future with one eye, he has not lost focus on his fight with Pulev, and knows the 39-year-old Bulgarian has plenty to offer in the ring.
“He does a lot of the basics well,” he said.
“Skillful fighter, great lead hand. Follows up with his back hand to head or body, throws it straight, throws it wide. He’s been in there with great fighters.”
Joshua also praised Fury for his achievements, but made it plain he believes that time is on his side as he waits for their two expected fights in 2021.
“He’s a great champion. He’s done well for himself,” Joshua said.
“I study him, he’s done great things for the sport of boxing. Long may it continue so we can meet at the top.
“I feel like the longer they leave it, the harder it is for them, because I’m improving. I’m getting stronger, I’m getting smarter.
“I don’t want the glitz and the glamour, I just want the fight.”
Watch the full 12-minute "Off the Cuff" interview with Anthony Joshua on DAZN.