All the latest information ahead of the highly anticipated rematch
Saudi Arabia has joined the reckoning as a potential host for Anthony Joshua’s bid to claim back the world heavyweight titles, with the Saudis reportedly offering £80 million to stage the Londoner’s rematch against champion Oleksandr Usyk in late June.
Promotor Eddie Hearn confirmed to Telegraph Sport that “nothing has been signed” but that “it’s one of the site options”.
June 25 has been earmarked as a probably date for the contest as Joshua bids to regain his WBA, IBF, WBO and IBO titles.
Joshua, who lost the world heavyweight titles to Usyk last September, is however still expected to face the Ukrainian at either Wembley Stadium or Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, despite reports on Monday that an agreement had been reached “in principal” for the blockbuster event to be held in Saudi Arabia.
Joshua fought in Saudi Arabia in December 2019, in a rematch against Andy Ruiz after losing to the Mexican American in a shock defeat at New York’s Madison Square Garden. Joshua reportedly earned £50 million for Joshua-Ruiz II, won on points by the Briton.
Usyk, meanwhile, who has been serving in the Kyiv Territorial Defence after the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, has gone into camp for the contest and has the full backing of former world heavyweight champions Vitali and Wladimir Kllitschko.
The brothers – Vitali is mayor of Kyiv – are fully immersed themselves in combatting Putin’s assault on their homeland. Speaking in an interview with Telegraph Sport, both offered their full support to their fellow Kyivian.
What is it?
A world heavyweight fight between Anthony Joshua and Oleksandr Usyk for the IBF, WBA and WBO belts.
When is it?
June 2022 is when the fight is likely to take place.
Where is it?
Should the fight go ahead, Wembley Stadium or Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the venue of their first encounter, are likely to stage the bout, despite the interest from Saudi Arabia.
How to watch Joshua-Usyk II on TV
Joshua’s recent fights have been broadcast on Sky Sports Box Office pay-per-view and it is highly likely to be the same again.