Joshua, however, warned Whyte that Povetkin is “seriously skilled” and does not believe he can match his victory over the Russian.

Povetkin was stopped by Joshua in the seventh round of the world title fight at Wembley.

Whyte admitted earlier this week he could target a ruthless early win, but Joshua has suggested that his British rival will have to work much harder to overcome Povetkin.

“He is a fighter, Dillian. But Povetkin is a seriously skilled heavyweight – an Olympic gold medallist, a world champion whose only losses were against [Wladimir] Klitschko and me.

“He’s good, a good fighter who hasn’t been on the losing end much so hasn’t got used to that feeling,” Joshua told Sky Sports.

Asked for his prediction, Joshua added: “It will go to a points decision.”