Joe Joyce to face Artem Suslenkov in Moscow on July 11
8 verified4 unconfirmed
British heavyweight Joe Joyce will return to the ring after more than a year to face undefeated Russian Artem Suslenkov in Moscow on July 11. The 40-year-old has not fought since losing to Filip Hrgovic by unanimous decision in April 2025. The bout will be for the WBA Continental heavyweight title and takes place on the undercard of Murat Gassiev’s title defence against Tony Yoka. Suslenkov, 30, holds a perfect professional record of 14 wins, nine by knockout, and last fought in April, stopping Artur Mann. Joyce, a 2016 Olympic silver medallist, has a record of 16 wins and four losses and has lost four of his past five fights. Both fighters expressed readiness for the contest, with Joyce stating he has spent the past year preparing and Suslenkov calling the matchup a serious challenge.
What’s verified
Joe Joyce, 40, will fight Artem Suslenkov on July 11 in Moscow.
The fight is for the WBA Continental heavyweight title.
Joyce last fought in April 2025, losing to Filip Hrgovic by unanimous decision.
Joyce has a professional record of 16 wins and 4 losses.
Suslenkov is 30, undefeated with 14 wins (9 by knockout).
Suslenkov last fought in April 2026, defeating Artur Mann.
The bout is part of the undercard for Murat Gassiev vs Tony Yoka.
Both fighters said they are focused and ready for the contest.
Not yet confirmed
Only one source reported that Joyce’s last victory came against Kash Ali in March 2024.
Only one source reported that promoter Frank Warren said Joyce needed to think about his future after the Hrgovic loss.
Only one source reported that Suslenkov also holds the IBF European heavyweight title.
Only one source provided details on the WBA title structure involving Oleksandr Usyk and Zuffa Boxing events.
Key figures
Joe Joyce (British boxer), Artem Suslenkov (Russian boxer), Murat Gassiev (Russian boxer), Tony Yoka (French boxer), Filip Hrgovic (Croatian boxer), Artur Mann (German boxer)
Sources: BBC News, Sky Sports
