Anthony Joshua to challenge Charles Martin for IBF heavyweight title

Anthony Joshua has agreed to challenge IBF title holder Charles Martin in London on April 9 as he looks to become world heavyweight champion in just his 16th professional fight.

Since stopping Dillian Whyte inside seven rounds in December, there has been much speculation regarding Joshua's next opponent, but promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed recent reports that the Olympic gold medallist will face American Martin at the O2 Arena.

Joshua only made his debut as a professional in October 2013, but after stopping all 15 of his opponents, his stock in the paid ranks has risen sharply and he is ranked highly with three of the four world governing bodies.

However, he has opted to go down the IBF route to face Martin, who will be making his first title defence since winning the belt in January when opponent Vyacheslav Glazkov was unable to continue in the third round after suffering a serious knee injury.

The showdown will headline a huge card with other world title bouts, potentially including the likes of James DeGale and Jamie McDonnell, expected to be announced in the coming days.