Anthony Joshua vows to win back title if he has to vacate

Anthony Joshua might lose two of his three belts because both sanctioning bodies are demanding he fight their mandatory challengers.

What would Anthony Joshua do if he has to vacate one of his heavyweight titles? Easy. He’ll just win it back.

At least that’s his plan.

Joshua, who holds three of the four major titles, might lose his IBF or WBO belts because both sanctioning bodies are demanding he fight their mandatory challengers immediately.

Kubrat Pulev and Olexsandr Usyk are the IBF and WBO mandatories, respectively. Joshua hasn’t made an announcement as to whom he will fight.

In the meantime, Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, is trying to concoct a deal that would save both titles. If he fails, Joshua said, he’ll be fine.

“I always said the belts do not represent me,” Joshua told Sky Sports. “I will stand as a champion, even if I have to give one up. It would give me an opportunity to face another world champion. I’ve beaten four world champions on my record now.

“If I give up a belt, it creates more history and entertainment. If I have to, I’ll give it away. But I’ll get it back again.”

Joshua regained his belts by outpointing Andy Ruiz Jr. on Dec. 7 in Saudi Arabia.