Anthony Joshua has opened up about his desire to agree to a rematch with Dillian Whyte.
The former world champion earned a TKO win over Whyte in 2015 and looks set to face him for a second time as he continues his attempt to climb back to the top of the heavyweight rankings. Following back-to-back defeats to Oleksandr Usk, ‘AJ’ returned with an unconvincing win over Jermaine Franklin in April.
Joshua has been sounded out by Saudi Arabian promotion company Skills Challenge Entertainment to face Deontay Wilder in December. However, the Olympic gold medalist hopes to face Whye at The O2 on August 12 and has explained why he is refusing to wait until the end of the year for his next fight after heading out to Dallas to begin his training camp.
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"What am I doing this fight for? I want to become three-time heavyweight champion of the world. I want to test myself,” he told his YouTube channel. “I've been through a lot and I want to see what I have left to give. When I say what I have left to give, I am not resting on what I have, I am building on what I have and I want to see how far I can take myself.
"I know what it takes, I know what this game is about and I'm going to push myself beyond the limits where I've been before, hence why I find myself in Dallas because I'm trying to find an environment that can stimulate me, motivate me and push me onto higher highs."
There have been disputes between Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn and Whyte over rematch clauses and other aspects of the contract, with Agit Kabayel suggested to be one of two possible back-up opponents if the quick-fire fight talks fell through. However, a representative for Whyte’s camp confirmed to ESPN that a contract has been signed.
"Dillian returned the signed agreement on Sunday morning ET and that he is unaware of any other party being in the frame for the fight. He is looking forward to fighting Anthony Joshua for a second time on Aug. 12 at The O2."
