Anthony Joshua to defend IBF heavyweight title in Manchester on November 26

Anthony Joshua has revealed he will defend his IBF heavyweight title at the Manchester Arena on 26 November.

Joshua, 26, has had a well-deserved break since successfully defending his title against Dominic Breazeale at the 02 Arena in June. Promoter Eddie Hearn has been busy behind the scenes lining up his return to the ring however, with the world champion now confirming via Twitter he will be heading up north for his next title defence.

London's 02 Arena has become Joshua's second home with his last five fights held at that venue. He returns to Manchester for the first time since September 2014, the scene of his eighth career win over German fighter Konstantin Airich.

Joshua's last fight outside the capital was the brutal knock-out victory over Raphael Zumbano Love in Birmingham in May 2015.

His next opponent is still to be determined, however. Joseph Parker is the number one contender for his IBF title, but a potential bout with British heavyweight David Price could delay those plans.

Kubrat Pulev is a possible opponent for that November date, with Hearn eager to put together a huge heavyweight triple-header with Parker vs Price also on the card, along with a clash between British heavyweights Dillian Whyte and Dereck Chisora.

"When I first started my professional career I travelled all round the country fighting, which I loved. This is taking me back to the grass roots.

"I can't wait to get back up north and show the people of Manchester how much I have improved since the last time I was there. I have been inspired over the summer by the fighters in the Olympics, it has given me a new perspective and huge hunger to get back in ring."

Joshua remains undefeated in his 17 professional fights.