The rematch between Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte has been officially confirmed with the two heavyweight rivals set to face-off once again on August 12 at the O2 Arena in London.
The rematch comes after Joshua’s recent defeat to Oleksandr Usyk, as he aims to make a comeback in heavyweight boxing.
Both fighters have had notable victories over Jermaine Franklin, with Joshua securing a unanimous decision win in April and Whyte outpointing him in November. With these victories, they have set the stage for an intense showdown in their upcoming rematch.
While Joshua has his sights set on a mega-money showdown against Deontay Wilder in Saudi Arabia later this year, he wants to have another fight before that and continue his journey under the guidance of his new trainer, Derrick James.
Joshua stated that he’ll be ready to fight on August 12.
“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,” Joshua said.
Whyte is excited to return to the London O2 Arena to settle score with Joshua.
With their previous encounters dating back to their amateur days in 2009, where Whyte emerged victorious, and their professional bout in 2015, where Joshua secured a knockout win, this third fight will serve as the decider between both pugilists.
“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!” Whyte said.
The history between Joshua and Whyte adds to the intensity of their rivalry. Their first meeting as amateurs saw a 20-year-old Whyte floor 19-year-old Joshua and win on points, but it was Joshua who went on to achieve tremendous success, including winning an Olympic gold medal in 2012.
Their second encounter as professionals ended with then-26-year-old Joshua delivering a knockout blow to 27-year-old Whyte in the seventh round.
Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn expressed disbelief that this rematch is finally happening, highlighting the deep-rooted rivalry and the determination of both fighters. With so much on the line, this fight is a must-win for Joshua and Whyte.
“I can’t quite believe this fight is happening and there was absolutely no stopping either man,” Hearn said.
“The rivalry runs deep and there is something about these two where they will never back down from each other. At times it may have looked like a game of bluff but now we are set and with everything that’s on the line this is an absolute must-win for both. Just like the first time at The O2, get ready for fireworks on August 12 and a huge night of boxing live on DAZN.”
