Joshua takes on dangerous Russian Alexander Povetkin next week at Wembley stadium.

So far 76,000 plus tickets have sold for the fight in the first Joshua bout in some time not to sell out instantly.

Perhaps fans have their eyes on a Joshua vs Wilder or Joshua vs Fury fight – but Povetkin is not to be underestimated.

Speaking on TV to Sky Sports Joshua said he ranks him in his top three opponents so far:

“Where do I put him (Povetkin)? Just after Klitschko yeah. Because Klitschko was the last one to beat him. He’s talented. He’s an Olympic Gold medalist. He’s fought for the world title. Then again, (Joseph) Parker was a world champion (too). Top three. I put him (Povetkin) in top three (with Klitschko and Parker).”

No Dillian Whyte in there who he’d probably have at number four but an interesting list nonetheless.

Pressure is probably at an all-time high for Joshua at the moment but then again, so are the rewards.

A win on the 22nd could set up a super fight next year against the winner of Wilder vs Fury.

The fight on September 22nd will be shown live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports box office in the UK.