Anthony Joshua insists he is fully focused on his upcoming fight with Alexander Povetkin despite also looking at the bigger picture in his career.
Boxing fans had hoped that Joshua would take on Deontay Wilder in his next fight, in an attempt to unify the heavyweight division.
Instead, the British ace will take on Russian veteran Povetkin, who will be 39 when the pair meet at Wembley Stadium on September 22nd, 11 years older than his opponent.
But Joshua, who has won every one of his 21 fights so far, is happy to take this test first and continue to build his legacy in the professional ranks.
The Olympic gold medalist has big plans for the future and feels now is a great time to be involved in the sport of boxing.
AJ said: “Boxing is a giant. When I turned pro it was a bit stagnant in the UK and we worked hard to try and push it.
“Good fighters and good names will generate interest. It’s not ‘him, him, him’ for me anymore – I have to look at the end goal.”
The Watford-born fighter added: “I feel like I am back in a tournament like it was in the amateurs or the Olympics. I have to get past people like Povetkin to fulfill my legacy.”
Despite the age gap, Joshua will be aware that Povetkin will pose a test and will have to be on his guard against an experienced opponent.
The Russian has had 35 fights, winning 34 with 24 victories coming via knockout. Povetkin’s only defeat came against Wladimir Klitschko in 2013.
The man nicknamed “White Lion” has talked up his extra experience that could prove crucial when the pair go toe-to-toe at Wembley Stadium later this year.
Povetkin stated: “I want to say that Anthony Joshua has proved that he’s one of the strongest fighters here – and I’m excited about this fight.”
“This fight will be all about experience. I know Anthony Joshua is a world champion, but we have been training hard for this fight.”
