Joyce vows 'big performance' in Moscow title challenge

Joe Joyce will challenge for the WBA Continental heavyweight title in Russia on July 11. The British heavyweight thanked IBA Pro for the opportunity and promised a statement showing in Moscow.

“I'm excited for the opportunity to travel to Russia and challenge for the WBA Continental heavyweight title on July 11. Thank you to IBA Pro for the opportunity. My team and I are locked in and Moscow should get ready for a big performance.”

— Joe Joyce, via BBC Sport

What Joe Joyce said

Joyce is travelling to face Suslenkov in what marks a rare overseas assignment for the former Commonwealth champion. The WBA Continental belt sits below the organisation's world, interim, and international straps in the heavyweight division. Joyce has campaigned at heavyweight throughout his professional career.

What it moves

The July date gives Joyce eight weeks to prepare for the Moscow assignment. Suslenkov will enjoy home advantage at a venue yet to be confirmed. Joyce's willingness to travel suggests he views the Continental title as a route back into world-level conversations after recent setbacks.

Source: bbc.com. Full Joe Joyce fight history and recent news at boxingnews.com.