Anthony Joshua will feature in his first non-world title fight since 2015 but has been warned about the dangers his next opponent brings.
The British fighter has confirmed he will take on Jermaine Franklin in his first non-title fight since he beat Dillian Whyte in December 2015 – but the two-time world champion has been warned it will be no walk in the park on 1 April.
The pair will go head-to-head at the O2 Arena in London in what is his first outing since losing his rematch to Oleksandr Usyk and the chance at regaining his belts.
Since knocking out Whyte at the same venue for the British title – Joshua has been involved in 12 successive world title bouts.
He is desperate to get back to winning ways after consecutive points defeats to Usyk, with his last victory coming against Kubrat Pulev in 2020.
Speaking of his fight with Franklin, Joshua said: “I’m looking forward to stepping back into the ring.
“Mentally and physically I feel ready. I want to put on a show and impress my coach as he has high standards.
“Franklin has a good style and a great attitude, which he has shown in recent fights.”
Meanwhile, his opponent has lost just once in 22 fights, with that defeat coming against Whyte on points in November.
“I’m ready to show the world why it’s time for me to take my place at the top of the heavyweight division,” he said.
“Joshua had his time. It’s my time to shock the world.”
