Artem Suslenkov (14-0, 9 KOs) comes into the bout unbeaten. The 30-year-old Volgograd-born boxer defended his WBA Continental title in April this year, earning a convincing stoppage victory over Artur Mann in front of his home fans at IBA Pro 16 in Serpukhov. Following his dominant victory, Suslenkov stormed into the WBA heavyweight top 10 rankings. The current IBF Europe champion now sits in ninth place and is regarded as one of the division’s most promising and powerful contenders.

“Joyce is a powerful opponent with strong technique and vast experience. This is a serious challenge. I feel both excitement and full focus. This is a chance to show my level and give the fans something to cheer about,” said Suslenkov. “Joyce uses his weight — around 120 kg — to apply pressure, but he is slow and predictable. His jab is effective mainly against a stationary target. Our strategy is speed, footwork, and staying away from the corners. We need to land quick combinations on the way in and out, and use counters.”

The Russian boxer also added that fighting Joyce at home is a huge motivation. “The support of my fans, the desire to show my best boxing, and the chance to make a historic statement in Moscow give me extra energy”.

In his last bout, Joe Joyce (16-4, 15 KOs) lost the vacant WBO International heavyweight title to Filip Hrgović. However, boasting a string of impressive stoppage victories on his record — including notable knockout wins over current WBO title challenger Daniel Dubois, former world champion Joseph Parker, and others — Joyce has firmly established himself as one of the most recognisable names in the heavyweight division.

Now working under the guidance of renowned coach Javan “Sugar” Steward, Joyce heads to Moscow with full confidence in his ability to deliver an upset and reassert himself among the elite contenders in boxing’s premier heavyweight landscape.

“I’ve spent the last year preparing, training and wanting to be back in the ring,” said Joyce. “I’m excited for the opportunity to travel to Russia and challenge for the WBA Continental Heavyweight title on July 11. Thank you to IBA Pro for the opportunity. My team and I are locked in and Moscow should get ready for a big performance.”