Joe Joyce will make his return to the ring on July 11 in Russia.
Joyce (16-4, 15 KOs) has been out of the ring since losing to Filip Hrgovic last April in Manchester.
It was the 40-year-old’s second straight defeat and fourth loss in five bouts.
The Londoner will look to get back to winning ways and straight into title contention when he faces unbeaten Russian, Artem Suslenkov at the VTB Arena in Moscow on the IBA Pro 19 card.
Suslenkov (14-0, 9 KOs) is on a run of 14 straight professional victories with nine knockouts.
The 30-year-old is ranked at nine with the WBA behind ‘super’ champion, Oleksandr Usyk and ‘regular’ titlist, Murat Gassiev who headlines the bill against Tony Yoka.
Former interim heavyweight champion, Joyce has teamed up with Tyson Fury’s trainer SugarHill Steward ahead of his return and is looking to revive his career.
“I’ve spent the last year preparing, training and wanting to be back in the ring,” he said.
“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.”
Suslenkov will be tackling the toughest opponent of his professional career.
The Volgograd native, who stopped Artur Mann in three rounds in April, is looking to announce himself on the world stage.
“Joyce is a powerful opponent with strong technique and vast experience,” he said.
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“This is a serious challenge. I feel both excitement and full focus.
“Meticulous preparation and the right tactics to neutralise his strengths will be crucial.
“This is a chance to show my level and give the fans something to cheer about.
“Joyce is a strong, pressure-fighting heavyweight with heavy hands and a great deal of experience.
“It is an honour for me to box on the card headlined by Murat Gassiev, who is defending his WBA Heavyweight title against Tony Yoka.
“This is a prestigious event, a major audience, and an opportunity to prove myself at the highest level.”
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