Joyce in talks over Pulev fight - 'They are reaching out'

Joe Joyce's team have expressed interest in a fight against former world title challenger Kubrat Pulev, says the Bulgarian heavyweight's promoter Ivaylo Gotzev.

The British contender is within touching distance of a world title fight after a stoppage victory over Carlos Takam in July.

But Joyce is assessing his future options, which could include a clash with Pulev, who was stopped by Anthony Joshua while challenging for the WBA, IBF and WBO belts last December.


"He's definitely looking forward to some good clashes this coming year, 2022," Pulev's promoter Gotzev told Sky Sports.

"We've been getting a lot of offers. Joe Joyce is looking for us.

"Kubrat is definitely not a stepping stone for no-one, so we're going to pick and choose our battles, and get him back to where he feels great.

"It's all about how he wants to enter the ring and how long he wants to keep going for."

Pulev, who has only lost to Joshua and Wladimir Klitschko in 30 fights, makes an unlikely return this weekend in a Triad Combat Rules bout against former UFC champion Frank Mir.

If he emerges victorious, then negotiations could be resumed about another fight in Britain.

Asked if he has been contacted by Joyce's team, Gotzev told Sky Sports: "Yes, absolutely. They are reaching out. They are talking to us, but when they get serious, they know who to call.

"I want to hear from (Joyce's promoter) Frank Warren himself."

Joyce has also been linked with a fight against Tyson Fury, who is awaiting confirmation of his next opponent, with the WBC yet to announce an expected mandatory defence versus Dillian Whyte.

"Joyce will fight anyone," Joyce's management SJAM told Sky Sports. "He's never turned down a fight and now he's ready for the real elite of heavyweight boxing.

"He's No 1 with the WBO and No 2 with the WBC and he wants to win belts. I'm speaking to his promoters (headed by Frank Warren) regularly and they know what our objectives are.

"A fight with a boxer of Fury's quality is something he would relish.

"Joe's durability and engine are a match for anyone in the sport."

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