Kubrat Pulev
Pulev is the mandatory challenger for Joshua’s IBF strap and has held that position for over 14 months following a win against Hughie Fury.
He was due to fight Joshua in October 2017 but a shoulder injury led him to withdraw from the Cardiff bout as Joshua claimed a technical knockout win over stand-in opponent Carlos Takam.
Although the WBO have ordered Joshua to fight their challenger next the IBF are also calling for Pulev to be granted his shot, with the Bulgarian tweeting on Saturday night: “I want to congratulate AJ and Eddie on regaining the title and look forward to facing AJ in his next bout, as the IBF has ordered. The result is going to be different this time, I guarantee it!”
The main drawback for Joshua is the commercial value of a Pulev fight; it is the smallest payday of his next four likely opponents but does present the opportunity for the easiest win.