Anthony Joshua fight: Luis Ortiz won't be world heavyweight champion's next opponent as search goes on

Joshua, holder of the WBA, IBF and WBO heavyweight titles, is searching for a new opponent ahead of his United States bow because of Jarrell Miller's reported multiple drug test failures

Wednesday 24 April 2019 11:15 BST
Comments
Anthony Joshua talks about Miller's failed drugs test

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Luis Ortiz's promoter has revealed the Cuban heavyweight will not challenge Anthony Joshua on June 1 at Madison Square Garden.

Joshua, holder of the WBA, IBF and WBO heavyweight titles, is searching for a new opponent ahead of his United States bow because of Jarrell Miller's reported multiple drug test failures.

Ortiz, who has won his last three bouts since suffering the only professional defeat of his career to WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder last year, was among the frontrunners to step into the breach.

But King Kong Boxing ruled out the prospect, accusing Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn of making "low ball offers" and accusing him of using Ortiz as "a gimmick".

"It's a no go for June 1," wrote King Kong Boxing on Instagram.

"We just received news from promoter that it's a no go and it was all a gimmick and Hearn's low ball offers will not be accepted.

"No contract even ever got sent so sorry to all the loyal fans .. Luis really wanted this title shot."

Miller's replacement is expected to be announced later this week, with Michael Hunter and Adam Kownacki said to be in contention to face Joshua.

PA

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in