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Anthony Joshua knocks out Raphael Zumbano Love to continue Kevin Johnson preparations

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After Anthony Joshua's impressive win over Raphael Zumbano Love, Joshua was met in the ring by his next next opponent Kevin Johnson

Anthony Joshua knocked out Raphael Zumbano Love and then came face-to face with next opponent Kevin Johnson.

The heavyweight prospect improved his career record to 12-0 after thrilling the Birmingham crowd with a trademark finish in the second round before coming face-to-face with upcoming foe Kevin Johnson.

Joshua was fully in control of the bout but ended it with frightening ferocity - a right hand flew past Love's guard and bludgeoned him. The Brazilian visitor was left floundering on the floor with no possibility of returning to his feet.

The opening round saw Joshua establish control with a jab, with Love's pawings attempts to return fire doing no damage.

Joshua seemed content to hear the first bell despite backing Love onto the ropes and ripping body shots on a couple of occasions. In the second, the Brazilian audaciously smiled as a jab snapped his head back - a sign of confidence that Joshua immediately extinguished with another vicious knockout.

"I don't know how long the first chapter will be," Joshua said when asked if would seek tougher tests. "I'm feeling more confident with each fight that goes on."

He will meet Johnson on May 30 at the O2 Arena in London on the undercard to Kell Brook v Frankie Gavin - and the American climbed into the ring after Joshua's win in Birmingham.

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"Whether me and Kevin go 10 rounds, or 8, 6, 4 or 2 - it doesn't bother me," Joshua insisted.

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Watch Anthony Joshua knock out Raphael Zumbano Love

His American counterpart, to a chorus of boos, said: "I've got the antidote for this guy. I know what I've got to do to stop this guy. This will be the meanest fight anyone has seen."

However, Joshua was given the final word when asked what would happen when the pair meet later this month.

“Two fighters that are hungry, that believe they are going to put on a show on, get the stoppage, are going to come out and we’re going to clash.

“May the best man win, but I’m sure everyone in here knows who the best man is out of me and him – it’s easy work for me.”

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