Anthony Joshua to fight in China? IBF champ could defend heavyweight title in Beijing's Bird's Nest

IBF heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua could make a defence of his title at Beijing's National Stadium. That is the view of Barry Hearn, the father of Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn. Joshua recently agreed to a first title defence against American Dominic Breazeale in London next month.

Joshua, 26, won the belt courtesy of a knockout victory against Charles Martin at the O2 Arena earlier this year. Hearn Sr has now suggested the Olympic gold medallist could one day defend his title in Beijing's iconic Bird's Nest, which staged the games in 2008.

"When you plan someone's career like Joshua you tend to plan in advance," said Hearn Sr, according to the BBC. "I think we're two years from saying we can sell out the Bird's Nest in China."

Hearn Sr is keen to see Joshua face China's 2008 silver medallist Zhang Zhilei at the Olympic venue. Zhilei is unbeaten in the professional ranks and Hearn considers him to be the perfect opponent for Joshua as he looks to build his global profile.

He admitted, though, that the move was dependent on both fighters remaining undefeated. "Sometimes these things don't happen because people get beaten, but our job is about creating these kinds of moments," he said.

In the more immediate term, Joshua is preparing to face Breazeale in London on 25 June. The American has won all 17 of his professional fights, with 15 knockouts. However, the Brit is still the heavily fancied favourite for the bout.