Anthony Joshua vs Wladimir Klitschko set to go ahead next year after Ukrainian suffers 'minor' calf injury

Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, has confirmed that a bout on 10 December has been ruled out even though IBF champion Joshua will still fight in Manchester

Joshua is one of the fighters that Ortiz would love to take on (Getty)

Anthony Joshua's proposed world heavyweight title fight with Wladimir Klitschko is now set for the spring after a December 10 date was ruled out.

Promoter Eddie Hearn announced on Monday evening that, with the Ukrainian suffering from a "minor injury" and no decision over whether the WBA title would be on the line, the fight could no longer happen on the date suggested.

Joshua will now fight a different opponent before Christmas, with a March or April date more likely for the hugely anticipated bout with Klitschko.

Hearn told Sky Sports: "We've been in deep negotiations for a few weeks now waiting on the decision from the WBA.

"I was made aware that Wladimir picked up a minor injury late last week but regardless of that, with just over six weeks to go until December 10, it's unrealistic to put together a fight of this magnitude and give it the full build-up it deserves.

"There will be an official announcement on Joshua v Klitschko coming very soon, but for now we are seeking a new foe for December 10 and building a huge card for Manchester.

"We decided with Bernd Boente [Klitschko's promoter], let's get this over the line now for March or April.

"Fans will hopefully get something official this week. The WBA are supposed to give their decision today [Monday] or tomorrow but I believe that is going to be positive for Anthony Joshua and Wladimir Klitschko.

"Once that is, I think we'll move forward and sign terms this week. We'll announce that fight for the spring and we'll be able to give it the build-up it deserves."

Joshua's opponent on December 10 could now be IBF mandatory challenger Joseph Parker, Bulgaria's Kubrat Pulev or fellow British Olympian David Price. Parker has indicated he is more likely to fight Andy Ruiz Jr for the WBO title in his native New Zealand.

PA