Breazeale Pledges To End Joshua's Reign

Dominic Breazeale has vowed to deliver a "shock to the world" by ruining Anthony Joshua's perfect record and taking his IBF heavyweight title.

IBF champion Joshua will make the first defence of his belt against the American challenger at The O2 in London on 25 June.

Breazeale was critical of countryman Charles Martin, who lost the title after a swift stoppage defeat to Joshua earlier this month, and has vowed to restore national pride.

"I did watch the fight. I thought it was a bit of an embarrassment on Charles Martin's part," Breazeale told Sky Sports. "I think Charles Martin was a little over matched and hadn't been through a situation like that before. Big kudos to Anthony Joshua for winning the way he did and now he's on to his next one, and it's going to be a tough opponent against me."

Joshua has won all 16 of his fights by stoppage, but the California fighter insists he will be the last man standing after an explosive victory in the capital.

"That will be a shock to the world for sure," said Breazeale. "Going to a man's back yard and taking his belt. Take his crowd - please them - gain some fans. There is no better way to do it.

"I'm 17-0 with 15 KOs. Every man I've faced, I've put down on the canvas. Unfortunately, I've had two guys go the distance. They were able to get up off the canvas and finish the fight.

"I'm definitely going to ruin that perfect record. In the end, I'll be the last man standing. It's going to be a battle of two titans, but in the end it will be me raising my hand and holding a new belt."

Breazeale suffered defeat in the preliminary round of the London 2012 Olympics, while Joshua edged out Erislandy Savon in his opening fight before advancing to the super-heavyweight final.

The home favourite would narrowly outpoint Roberto Cammarelle after a count back and Breazeale felt Joshua was fortunate to emerge with the gold medal.

"I'm fighting the gold medallist from my 2012 Olympic year," he said. "What better way to do it and prove to those that doubted me then, those who doubt me now, and those who are going to be respecting me after June 25.

"He was a good fighter in the heavyweight class of 2012 Olympics. But I honestly think he lost to the Olympian for the gold medal match.

"Prior to that, I didn't even know who Anthony Joshua was, going into the Olympic city, until he had that tough bout on day one."