Anthony Joshua is biding his time before he fights for a world title Anthony Joshua is biding his time before he fights for a world title

Anthony Joshua says he needs more time before he is fully ready for a shot at world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury.

The Olympic gold medallist has been a sensation since turning professional in 2013 with 15 knockouts from 15 fights, the latest of which was a devastating seventh-round stoppage of bitter rival Dillian Whyte.

Talk of a British superfight against Fury has heated up since that impressive win but Joshua wants more time to further hone his skills before he fights for a world title.

Tyson Fury is the man to beat in the heavyweight division

When asked about his timeline for a world title shot, the 26-year-old said: "I'd like to say 18 months as time is a virtue. Experience is key for me right now, so the next 12 months will be about building.

"If a shot did come, we would take the opportunity, but if we had it our way I'm sure we'd keep on building for another 12 to 18 months.

"I'll take my time, watch the division. I am a work in progress and once I get a crack at these boys they best run scared because when I come I'll be coming with force."

Once I get a crack at these boys they best run scared because when I come I'll be coming with force. Anthony Joshua

Dereck Chisora has been put forward as a possible opponent for Joshua at London's O2 Arena on April 9, but the British champion has his sights set on adding the European crown to his list of titles.

Unbeaten Finnish fighter Robert Helenius defeated Franz Rill on points to win the vacant European title on Saturday.

"There's nothing wrong with fighting Dereck Chisora, but I don't think that's the route we will be going," Joshua revealed.

Robert Helenius currently holds the European title

"I'm going to continue down the European route and if we need to defend the British title at times, then potentially [it will be against] the likes of Chisora because I need to fight British fighters.

"There's options, which is good, but personally I would like to go down the European route and try and aim for that belt as well as the Commonwealth and British before I get to world level."