Anthony Joshua becomes IBF heavyweight champion
Anthony Joshua claimed the IBF heavyweight title at London’s 02 Arena on Saturday, after beating Charles Martin in two rounds. The 26 year-old Briton has become the world champion after just 16 professional fights.
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Four years after clenching a Gold Medal at the London Olympics, Joshua snatched his first world title from the American Charles Martin.
Martin, who was making a first defence, failed to beat the count after he was floored a second time, thus enduring his first defeat in 25 fights.
Throughout the match, Joshua's right-hand hooks proved too powerful for Martin.
He landed the best punch of a cautious opening round, when he broke through Martin's guard with a right.
He then mounted several onslaughts on Martin in the second round, and sent the 29 year-old crashing to the canvas with a right delivered to his opponent’s chin.
Martin got up after a count, only to receive another powerful right to the jaw which sent the defending champion straight back to the floor.
This time the American failed to beat referee's second count.
In Joshua’s 16 professional fights, only one opponent has made it past the third round.
But the new champion is carfeul not to get ahead of himself.
"I'm not getting carried away because still got a lot of work to do," he said.
Joshua, who turned professional in October 2013, is now Britain's second reigning world heavyweight champion along with Tyson Fury, who holds the World Boxing Association (WBA) and World Boxing Organisation (WBO) belts.
If Fury can beat Ukrainian Wladimir Klitschko in their rematch on July 9, a future showdown with his fellow Briton will be possible.
"I've got David Haye and Tyson Fury calling me out,” said Joshua after the match.
“Trust me, when they step in the ring with me I will be ready.”
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