Anthony Joshua says: "Alexander Povetkin is a very tough challenger he proved that tonight. I came here to have fun, do what I have done in the gym, he was strong to the head but weak to the body it could have taken seven, nine or 12 rounds to get him out of there.

"Tonight is out of the way let's figure out what's happening on April 13. Let's put a vote out there.

"There are no mandatory challengers? Who do we want to fight? Anyone is welcome. The sport is about what the fans want, but some times we have to face the mandatories."

Asked why the fight against Deontay Wilder did not happen, Joshua adds: "We both did a lot of talking, I'm here now, I had a good fight, have my knockout streak back.

"There is a lot of pressure the whole country is rooting for us. The energy in here spurs you on and you do feel that pressure, I'm not going to lie. A few years ago maybe I wouldn't have won the fight."