Hearn reveals Joshua has officially triggered Usyk rematch clause

Anthony Joshua has triggered his Oleksandr Usyk rematch clause – with the fight expected in March.

The British star had his WBA, IBF, WBO, and IBO belts ripped away by the Ukrainian after losing by decision at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

AJ, 31, will immediately have an opportunity to win them back, however, with promoter Eddie Hearn confirming the clause has now been activated.

Hearn told DAZN’s Maya Jama: “We have officially triggered the rematch for Oleksandr Usyk fight, which we’ll see early next spring.

“Back in the game and we’re looking for him to become three-time world champion.

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“A few niggles in camp for AJ, Usyk had a bad cut, it’s officially triggered, we’ll sit down with K2 Promotions and I think March is when you’ll see that fight.

“This was a disappointing loss to a pound-for-pound great.

“We don’t need to get back in the game with 10-rounders, he needs to rip those belts off Usyk.”

The new champ, 34, is keen for the rematch to take place in his home country’s capital, Kiev.

While Hearn would like the bout to take place in the UK, despite offers from the Middle East.

The Matchroom promoter told The BBC: “Usyk has mentioned Kiev in his home country Ukraine as a potential venue and we will look at all options.

“When AJ heard about that he didn’t have an issue with it and found it quite exciting.

“I would like to do it back in the UK and we’ve had offers from the Middle East but we will see what’s the best opportunity for both fighters.

“I don’t think the venue makes much difference in how AJ has to fight.”