Anthony Joshua delivered a stunning finish to stop Alexander Povetkin and retain his world heavyweight boxing titles at Wembley Stadium.
The IBF, WBO and WBA champion, criticised in some quarters for failing to finalise a deal with the division's other high‑profile names, responded emphatically with a seventh‑round stoppage of the Russian, who had never been beaten inside the distance.
After an early chess match in which Joshua suffered a bloodied nose before cutting his rival, the Briton grew in confidence and a savage right hand followed by a left hook began an onslaught which would prove telling.
Another right‑left combination downed Povetkin, who somehow made the count, only to stagger into a left hook which saw him slump into the ropes, leaving referee Steve Gray with no option but to intervene.
Joshua’s display showcased poise, intellect and power, sending a message to the heavyweight division that the champion will take some stopping.
It is believed that Joshua will earn 20 million pounds and Povetkin 6 million pounds.
28‑year‑old Joshua has also revealed Wembley has been booked out for a potential fight against Wilder or fellow British heavyweight, Tyson Fury.
Joshua says 13th April is booked adding Wembley is there ‑ a date and a location ‑ it's just the person who wants to step up and fight him.
Victory against Povetkin was Joshua's 21st by knockout.
With 22 professional bouts under their belts, Wladimir Klitschko, Lennox Lewis and Mike Tyson were still chasing a world title. Joshua, by contrast, has now defended his six times.
Heavyweights will continue to call Joshua's name. The type of pay day that comes with a man who has sold more than 300,000 tickets in four fights is a jackpot draw.
After this destructive victory, though, rivals will know they are stepping in with a man who is getting better.
👑👑👑👑
— Matchroom Boxing (@MatchroomBoxing) September 22, 2018
“My number one would be Wilder for April 13. See you then” - @anthonyfjoshua #JoshuaPovetkin pic.twitter.com/thrqR8yM51
He’s the man 👊
— Matchroom Boxing (@MatchroomBoxing) September 22, 2018
👑👑👑👑 #JoshuaPovetkin pic.twitter.com/WBeyXUvbbS
[Source: BBC]
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