British heavyweight Joe Joyce has sparked his rematch with China’s Zhilei Zhang.
Joyce, 37, suffered the first professional defeat of his career against Zhang in April, losing by technical knockout in the sixth round.
Zhang’s win saw him replace Joyce with WBO mandatory challenger status for champion Oleksandr Usyk.
“Revenge clause activated. Take back what’s mine,” Joyce posted on Twitter confirming the news.
Joyce was undefeated in 15 fights with 14 knockouts before losing to Zhang at the Copper Box Arena in London.
Zhang, 40, confirmed after his victory that Joyce had the option of an immediate rematch, but said he would prefer it to take place in China.
Zhang has reportedly been in talks with WBC champion Tyson Fury about a potential fight this summer.
Usyk must face WBA and IBF mandatory challengers Daniel Dubois and Filip Hrgovic before his WBO challenger, meaning Zhang will have to wait until 2024 to face the reigning WBO champion.
Zhang and Fury would have to work out a deal with Joyce if they were to fight next.
Both Joyce and Fury are promoted by Frank Warren of Queensberry Promotions.
