Anthony Joshua next fight to take place on 25 June at O2 Arena to avoid clash with Tyson Fury vs Wladimir Klitschko

Joshua's opponent will be named at a later date for his first title defence

Anthony Joshua celebrates winning the IBF title (Getty)

Anthony Joshua will make the first defence of his IBF world heavyweight title on June 25 in London with his opponent to be announced at a later date.

The 26-year-old made light work of Charles Martin earlier this month to claim the title and he will return to the O2 Arena this summer looking to cement his crown.

The London 2012 super heavyweight gold medallist knocked out Martin in the second round and potential opponents for his next fight include the likes of Bermane Stiverne, Eric Molina and Dominic Breazeale.

In a video posted on his official Twitter account, Joshua said: "I've been speaking with my coach and I want the closest fight date possible because I'm feeling good.

"I can't wait to get back into the training camp and pick up where we left off.


 Anthony Joshua defeated Charles Martin to win the IBF world heavyweight title (Getty)
 (2016 Getty Images)

"The date to put in your diary is June 25, back at the O2 Arena for my first title defence and a jam-packed undercard.

"I can't wait to be back and I'm looking forward to performing once again."

Joshua's promoter Matchroom was originally planning to stage the first defence of his title at Wembley Stadium on July 9 - the same night Tyson Fury is scheduled to fight Wladimir Klitschko.

The possibility of the two British fighters meeting in the ring in a unification contest will only heighten if they can both pass their respective bouts this summer.


 Joshua could take on Bermane Stiverne, Eric Molina or Dominic Breazeale 
 (Getty)

Undefeated American Breazeale, 30, is in the top 15 of the IBF's heavyweight rankings and among those to not have a fight scheduled while Molina was knocked out by WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder last year.

Stiverne is a former WBC heavyweight champion but the 37-year-old could be considered a little long in the tooth for rising star Joshua.

PA