Egis Klimas, the manager for WBO, IBF, WBC, WBA cruiserweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk, says his boxer would need a max of two fights at heavyweight to be ready for a clash with WBO, IBF, WBA, IBO champion Anthony Joshua.

Last Saturday night, Usyk fought in what is likely his final bout at cruiserweight - as he knocked out Tony Bellew in the eight round at the Manchester Arena.

Usyk recently signed on with promoter Eddie Hearn, who also guides the career of Joshua.

Klimas indicates that his boxer will not rush to a clash with Joshua, he will make the move in a smart manner.

"If we move to heavyweight we need to move very professionally, so it may take a few months for him [Usyk] to prepare," said Klimas to Sky Sports.

"We won't be going for Joshua in the first fight [at heavyweight], he will need a fight or two against the bigger guys. But he will be a very, very good heavyweight. He will bring his speed and he has shown he has the power. The target for the team is to fight the best in the division."

Joshua is scheduled to make a defense of his world title on April 13th at Wembley Staidum in London.

He will face the winner of next month's WBC title clash between Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury or the rematch victor between Dillian Whyte and Dereck Chisora.

But Usyk could very well become Joshua's opponent for the fall of 2019 - if everything goes as planned.

"That's [Joshua] the one they want," said the Matchroom Boxing boss.

"Joshua will only fight twice next year, so it will be the one after. It won't be the first one, because I think Usyk will want to fight at heavyweight first. There are loads of fights out there for him."