Joe Joyce reveals hopes of domestic showdowns with Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua after next opponent confirmed

Joyce must defeat Carlos Takam to remain on course for WBO title shot

British heavyweight Joe Joyce has admitted that he would love to face domestic rivals Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury later in his career as he searches for the opportunity to become world heavyweight champion in the coming months.

The 'Juggernaut' has already dethroned fellow heavyweight contender Daniel Dubois from the same stable last year with a superb stoppage display in London, and is looking to add further British scalps to his collection in the near future.

He has continued to work his way into the scene for the WBO heavyweight belt, but must wait patiently in the wings for the winner between Joshua and Oleksandr Usyk in September.

In the meantime, Joyce will face heavyweight warrior Carlos Takam in July who is looking to stake his own claim at becoming champion in the blue-ribbon division.

He spoke at a media day with promoter Frank Warren and manager Sam Jones following the announcement, and revealed his excitement at returning to the ring once again.

Joyce said: "When I thought I might fight Usyk, I just went to the gym, practised some southpaw techniques, but boxing is unpredictable and you never really know what is going to happen. I kept myself ready, stayed off the doughnuts and the beers so I’m in good shape. I was training like I was going to fight Usyk, but now I am totally focused on Takam.

"He’s not a southpaw, he’s orthodox and I am confident of my ability in this fight. I am within touching distance of a World title fight and let them know I’m ready to fight whoever has the belts. I have accepted the fight with Takam because he is a good name, an experienced fighter, he’s strong and always comes to win.

"It’s going to be a great fight. He is a short fighter in stature so will want to get in range, throw those big dangerous hooks and get under my jab. It’s going to be a difficult fight. I just need to increase my sparring and I’m ready to go."

The undefeated fighter confirmed his plans to take on either Fury or Joshua later in his career, and believes that he is more than capable of defying the odds once again, by defeating two of the division's leading names.

"There are a few fights to be sorted out, but I can fight any of the big names for a World title. That is what I’m in the sport for. I said I was going to win all the belts, win a World title and I am right there. I am going to get to my destination. I want Anthony Joshua or Tyson Fury when I fight for a World title. I always seem to be the underdog who pulls through.

It’s less pressure on myself and I make sure I do the work in the gym. It will be so much better with fans back and I can pick up their energy. I’m gonna beat up Takam, won’t be able to sleep and I will watch Tyson against Deontay.

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