ANTHONY JOSHUA wants to fight old rival Wladimir Klitschko in Las Vegas.
The WBA and IBF heavyweight king defeated the Ukrainian in a stunning thriller in April, rising from the canvas to halt the veteran in the 11th round. A rematch has been rumoured ever since but Joshua revealed to Sky Sports viewers, following Frank Buglioni’s victory over Ricky Summers, that Klitschko still needs persuading.
“The last fight put the expectations on a pedestal but it was entertainment,” Joshua said. “We can’t fight too many fights like that but regarding who I’m fighting, I’ve got two options. One is a rematch with Klitschko, and we’re waiting to see, and we’re trying to dangle a few carrots to make him bite and spark is interest again. The man has achieved great things throughout his career so it takes a lot for him to get motivated and interested again.”
The other option for Joshua, should Klitschko opt to retire, is his IBF mandatory.
“When you have a belt, there’s mandatory positions you have to face and one of them is Kubrat Pulev, a very talented Bulgarian fighter,” the Englishman explained. “If I don’t fight Klitschko, this is the other guy I’ll have to compete with in the future.”
But Klitschko is clearly the desired rival for his 20th contest. Several venues have already been mentioned – with Cardiff the early favourite – but Joshua has his sights set on America.
“I like the sound of Vegas! I’m ready, I’m ready. I want to be paid all in casino chips, all on red.”
