Joe Joyce Returns To Boxing Against The Undefeated Artem Suslenkov

Britain’s Joe Joyce will make his long-awaited return to the ring for the first time in over a year when he challenges undefeated Russian heavyweight Artem Suslenkov for the WBA Continental title in Moscow in July.

Joyce, who will be nearly 41 when the first bell rings, had been out of action since his crushing unanimous decision loss to Filip Hrgovic for the vacant WBO International heavyweight title in April 2025.

The 2016 Olympic silver medallist has only won one of his previous five fights, with his last victory coming over two years ago against Kash Ali in March 2024.

After the Englishman’s recent defeat against Hrgovic, Joyce’s long-term promoter Frank Warren said he needed to have a “real serious think about his future.”

Despite the setbacks to his career Joyce says he has spent the past year “preparing, training and wanting to be back in the ring.”

“I’m excited for the opportunity to travel to Russia and challenge for the WBA Continental heavyweight title on July 11,” added Joyce.

“Thank you to IBA Pro for the opportunity. My team and I are locked in and Moscow should get ready for a big performance.”

Suslenkov, 30, comes into the fight with a perfect record from his 14 professional fights, with nine of his victories coming by way of knockout.

The Volgograd-born heavyweight last fought in April when he successfully defended his WBA Continental title against Artur Mann.

The stoppage victory moved Suslenkov into the WBA’s top 10 heavyweight rankings for the first time.

“Joyce is a powerful opponent with strong technique and vast experience. This is a serious challenge,” said Suslenkov. “I feel both excitement and full focus.

“This is a chance to show my level and give the fans something to cheer about.”

The IBA Pro 19 card will be headlined by Murat Gassiev’s defence of his WBA heavyweight title against Tony Yoka.