Eddie Hearn has confirmed that Anthony Joshua will defend his world titles against WBO mandatory challenger, Oleksandr Usyk, on September 25th. The fight is still not finalised, but on Instagram Live Hearn stated that the date is set.
Joshua has been searching for an opponent since negotiations for a showdown with Tyson Fury were hijacked at a late stage following an arbiter’s ruling that Fury must face Deontay Wilder for a third time.
Despite having multiple options, including a rematch with Dillian Whyte, Joshua has opted to satisfy his obligation to the Ukranian and that fight will take place this autumn.
"Joshua v Usyk announcement, don't want to say two weeks as you guys are bored of me saying that. September 25 is the date." Said Hearn.
With Fury scheduled to defend his WBC title against Wilder on July 24th, a victory against the American will pave the way for an encounter with the winner of Joshua vs. Usyk.