Anthony Joshua v. Alexander Povetkin opens up Matchroom’s debut on DAZN

In the wake of Matchroom Boxing’s $1 billion deal with DAZN, all eyes were on Eddie Hearn. He knew he had to hit a home run in order to impress the higher ups and the fans. The next announced superfight may not have been the one fans wanted at first, but it could be the one that can change the shape of boxing leading into 2019.

Unified Heavyweight Champion Anthony Joshua will face challenger Alexander Povetkin on September 22 inside Wembley Stadium in London. The fight will be the first one to air exclusively on DAZN. Both fighters were at the official conference for DAZN USA’s debut.

In a press release, Joshua had the following to say about his challenger:

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring; the end of March feels a long time ago now. Povetkin is a serious challenge that I will prepare meticulously for. He has serious pedigree, and only a fool would underestimate what he brings to the table.

This fight could potentially affect the expected Joshua (21-0) v. Deontay Wilder bout. Controversy surrounded the buildup to Joshua v. Wilder, which should have been a shoe-in following Wilder’s win over Luis Ortiz a few months back. Even though the two agreed to fight in the United Kingdom, a concern regarding pay was a major factor. A flat fee or a percentage split dilemma, among other factors was one of the major reasons for the fight being delayed. There is a chance the two fight on April 13, Joshua’s next scheduled fight at Wembley Stadium.

But what if Povetkin (34-1) wins? It is not entirely impossible, especially with the role the 38-year old has been on. Since losing to Wladimir Klitschko in 2013, Povetkin has won eight in a row. The current WBA Inter-Continental and WBO International Heavyweight Champion was calm as can be during his introduction at the DAZN offices. The hope is that his previous failed drug tests don’t affect his chances at a true title opportunity once again on a grand stage.

As fans count down the months until a (hopeful) Joshua v. Wilder encounter, this appetizer will have to do. For any other boxing fan, this is something they can sink their teeth into.

Joshua might have to watch his back, however. Jarrell Miller was lurking about, trying to make a statement to the champion. Whether a bout comes to fruition will be an interesting development.

https://twitter.com/MatchroomBoxing/status/1019347136482119681

DAZN’s debut in America launches on September 10. Fans can get a one-month free trial and the fee is $9.99 a month.

Do you believe this is the right fight for Joshua?