ANTHONY JOSHUA won't fight again in a stadium.
After back-to-back defeats by Oleksandr Usyk, the former heavyweight champion will attempt to revive his career in December.
Anthony Joshua lost a split-decision to Oleksandr Uzyk last month
AJ will try to return to winning ways in December
However, his second fight of this year will not take place in a venue
Eddie Hearn, the promoter of the Brit's bid for a return to the win column, has said that the event will be held in front a smaller crowd than he is used to in recent years.
The Daily Mail was informed by the Matchroom Boxing chief: "I would like to bring him back."
"Look, there is the Zhang [Zhieli] bout. Many people believe he beat Filip Horgovic, and that's a huge fight in China. But I feel the next fight should take place in the UK.
"It will take place at the O2 or Manchester Arena. We won't fight in a stadium."
Both venues are currently in preliminary talks, but neither is leading the race for Joshua's return to Britain.
Hearn said, "We all want a December return." Although it's not yet confirmed, everyone is focused on this possibility.
"We are not booking a venue but the conversations - as recent as yesterday – were December for his Return."
Joshua's December fight is still not decided. However, Hearn insists it will be a tough fight for the Watford warrior.
He stated, "I don’t want to mention names, but this is a top-15 fight.
"It will have someone credible, whom AJ can return to, express his opinions, and build on the lessons he learned in camp.
"He can then rebuild himself up to fight for a heavyweight championship again."
Joshua, 32, was defeated by Usyk in a split decision, but he was outboxed comfortably by the Ukrainian.
After his post-fight speech, he was not in the mood to speak after returning to the dressing area.
Hearn stated that he didn't want to have a conversation. It was just that kind of vibe. He was very frustrated when we went back to the changing room.
"I went over to him to talk and he was like, "Leave me alone."
"I said, "No, I won’t leave you alone. You boxed well, I have to tell you. He replied, "No, I didn't box well. I lost."
"I told you, "No, you boxed well. You didn't box well in the first fight. I have told you this.
"But after nine rounds I was convinced that you were going to win the fight."
"Usyk was incredible in the 10th, 11th, and 12th rounds. The better man won, but Joshua took him all of the way."
