Anthony Joshua vows to quickly regain world title if forced to vacate
When questioned if he may have to vacate a world heavyweight title, Anthony Joshua (23-1) simply said, "I'll get it back again".
The Olympic gold medallist regained his WBA 'Super', IBF and WBO belts with an excellent game plan that led to a commanding points victory over Andy Ruiz Jr last month in Saudi Arabia and has already been ordered to make title defences against Kubrat Pulev (28-1) and Oleksandr Usyk (17-0), who are his IBF and WBO mandatory challengers.
With both the International Boxing Federation and World Boxing Organisation attempting to enforce fights, promoter Eddie Hearn is hoping to reach a resolution that would allow him to fulfil both title obligations, but the two-time world heavyweight champion is relaxed about his next career move after avenging the only defeat of his career.
"I always said the belts do not represent me," Joshua told Sky Sports. "I will stand as a champion, even if I have to give one up.
"It would give me an opportunity to face another world champion – I've beaten four world champions on my record now.
"If I give up a belt it creates more history and entertainment. If I have to, I'll give it away – but I'll get it back again."
The IBF told Sky Sports last month that they hope to reach a resolution for Pulev to receive the first title fight with Joshua, while Usyk has been offered an alternative fight against Londoner Derek Chisora in early 2020.
Joshua is expected to return in April or May, with a possible venue of the new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and he welcomed the opportunity for a London homecoming at the 62,062-capacity venue.