Andy Ruiz Jr

Joshua predicts 'iconic' night in December rematch with Ruiz Jr

Heavyweight Joshua is aiming to reclaim the IBF, WBA and WBO titles after suffering a shock loss - the first of his professional career - at the hands of replacement opponent Ruiz back in June.

Having dropped his rival earlier in the round, the Briton was sensationally floored in the third. He was also knocked down twice in the seventh, leading to the contest being stopped.

Joshua v Ruiz rematch confirmed

Hearn said a deal has been clinched that will see the rematch take place in November or December.

Joshua lost his WBA, IBF and WBO heavyweight belts after a shock seventh-round TKO at the hands of challenger Ruiz at Madison Square Garden in New York on Saturday.

The new fight deal was struck in accordance with what Joshua and trainer Rob McCracken wanted, Hearn indicated.

Ruiz robs Joshua of belts and aura

After visiting the canvas four times inside seven rounds, a dream American debut at Madison Square Garden unravelling into an unforeseeable nightmare, the former IBF, WBA and WBO world heavyweight champion emerged for a delayed post-fight news conference with a smile and good manners.

"I've dealt with some real big losses in life and bounced back. I feel like this is just part of a journey that I'm on," he said, having warmly embraced Ruiz in the ring afterwards.

Joshua: Ruiz as dangerous as Wilder

WBA, IBF and WBO champion Joshua was originally set to face Jarrell Miller in a heavyweight showdown in New York City on June 1, but that bout was scrapped after Miller failed drugs tests.

Ruiz stepped up to take Miller's place, with the American-born 29-year-old – who is of Mexican heritage – having won 32 of his 33 professional fights.

On Wednesday, Joshua urged current WBC champion Wilder to clear the path for an undisputed heavyweight title fight, should the Briton beat Ruiz.

Joshua-Ruiz Jr will be an exciting fight, Hearn promises

World heavyweight champion Joshua (22-0) was slated to meet Jarrell Miller for his United States debut on June 1 at Madison Square Garden, but the American's failed drug tests meant the fight was scrapped.

Ruiz (32-1) is expected to be confirmed as the replacement to battle for Joshua's WBA, IBF and WBO world titles.

The California-born 29-year-old fought for a heavyweight strap against Joseph Parker in December 2016 and Hearn, who described a deal for the bout as "close", is sure fans will not be disappointed.