Joe Joyce is a few days away from his fight with former world title challenger Carlos Takam at SSE Arena, Wembley on Saturday July 24, live on BT.

Joyce will be risking a guaranteed world title challenge when he tackles French star Takam (39-5-1, 28 KOs), who went ten rounds with Anthony Joshua in an IBF, IBO and WBA championship challenge in October 2017.

Joyce (12-0, 11 KOs) is back in action for the first time since his win against Daniel Dubois last November when he captured the vacant European title and relieved Dubois of his British and Commonwealth titles.

Putney’s Joyce is currently ranked number two by the WBO, but will move into their mandatory position after September’s proposed Joshua v Oleksandr Usyk clash.

"When I thought I might fight Usyk, I just went to the gym, practiced some southpaw techniques, but boxing is unpredictable and you never really know what is going to happen. I kept myself ready, stayed off the doughnuts and the beers so I’m in good shape. I was training like I was going to fight Usyk," Joyce said.

"I am totally focused on Takam. He’s not a southpaw, he’s orthodox and I am confident of my ability in this fight. I am within touching distance of a world title fight and let them know I’m ready to fight whoever has the belts. I accepted the fight with Takam because he is a good name, an experienced fighter, he’s strong and always comes to win. It’s going to be a great fight. He is a short fighter in stature so will want to get in range, throw those big dangerous hooks and get under my jab. It’s going to be a difficult fight.

"There are a few fights to be sorted out, but I can fight any of the big names for a world title. That is what I’m in the sport for. I said I was going to win all the belts, win a world title and I am right there. I am going to get to my destination. I want Anthony Joshua or Tyson Fury when I fight for a world title. I always seem to be the underdog who pulls through. It’s less pressure on myself and I make sure I do the work in the gym. I will win by stoppage or KO but wont predict a round."