Joe Joyce needs a new opponent after his fight with Dillian Whyte was cancelled.
Joyce was supposed to fight Whyte in Manchester on April 5th.
Their anticipated fight was cancelled this week because Whyte had to withdraw due to an injury.
Whyte, a former challenger for the WBC title, pulled out of the fight due to a finger injury.
Joyce is still planning to fight on April 5th. A source close to Joyce mentioned, “It’s a real disappointment for Joe.”
“He trained very hard for this fight, and Dillian was a great opponent.”
“British boxing fans know Joe will fight anyone.”
“Fortunately, there are many good heavyweight boxers available.”
“Joe wants to fight someone at a high level. He’s ready to face any challenger.”
Since Joyce is ready to fight anyone, here are three potential replacement opponents for him.
Moses Itauma
Moses Itauma is an undefeated, promising heavyweight boxer. He turned professional in January 2023 and has won all but two of his 11 fights by knockout.
Itauma wants to become the youngest heavyweight champion, breaking Mike Tyson’s record, and is eager to fight top boxers.
Fighting Joyce could be a big opportunity for him.
It would be easy to arrange this fight because both boxers are promoted by Queensbery Promotions.
However, Frank Warren, the promoter, might not want to put Itauma, a young talent, against an experienced fighter like Joyce so early in his career.
Jarrell Miller
Jarrell Miller, an American boxer who has faced controversy, was expected to fight Derek Chisora in February, but the fight did not happen.
Miller is trying to get back to the top level after losing to Daniel Dubois, the IBF heavyweight champion, in December 2023.
A quick win against Joyce, a former WBO interim heavyweight titleholder, would definitely put him back in the heavyweight scene.
Andy Ruiz Jr
Andy Ruiz Jr, a former unified heavyweight champion, has not been very active since losing his rematch to Anthony Joshua in December 2019.
Since then, he has only fought three times, winning decisions against Chris Arreola and Luis Ortiz, and drawing with Miller.
Ruiz Jr is training and wants to fight again.
Beating Joyce on short notice would show that he is still a strong contender in the heavyweight division and wants to compete at the highest level again.
