“Get ready for fireworks” – Anthony Joshua v Dillian Whyte showdown set for August

Heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua will face fellow Briton Dillian Whyte at London’s O2 Arena on 12 August.

33-year-old Joshua knocked out Whyte in the seventh round of their British title fight in 2015.

After that time, Olympic gold medallist Joshua went on to become a two-time world champion.

Whyte, who is presently 36 years old, lost his only world title challenge bout to fearsome Tyson Fury in 2022.

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“I’ve been clear that my plan is to be active this year. August 12 is the date – I’ll be ready to fight. I look forward to dealing with business,” said Joshua.

Whyte had previously beaten Joshua by decision as an amateur in 2009. That fight shaped the rivalry that has existed between both boxers ever since.

Joshua gained revenge against Whyte when the duo met again, this time as professionals in December 2015. Joshua was rocked in the second round but recovered to force a stoppage in the seventh.

“I’m looking forward to returning to the London O2 on August 12 and going to war. It’s 1-1, so this is the decider,” said Whyte.

Anthony Joshua beat American Jermaine Franklin on points in April. That was his first win in more than two years, having lost back-to-back bouts to WBA (Super), IBF and WBO world champion Oleksandr Usyk.

AJ has has won 25 fights and lost three. He turned pro after claiming gold at London 2012 Olympic games.

Joshua won a world title in his 16th fight, but suffered a shock loss to Andy Ruiz Jr at the Madison Square Garden in June 2019 – his first loss as a professional.

However, he bounced back shortly after, reclaiming his unified titles in the rematch in December of the same year.

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Already, Joshua is anticipated to fight former world champion Deontay Wilder in December in Saudi Arabia. It is believed that a deal is very close to being agreed.

“I can’t quite believe this fight is happening and there was absolutely no stopping either man,” said Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter.

“The rivalry runs deep and there is something about these two where they will never back down from each other.

“It is an absolute must-win for both. Get ready for fireworks.”

Also known as ‘the Bodysnatcher,’ Whyte has not fought since also beating Franklin, also on points, in November 2022.