The 23-year-old from Watford was one of the main targets of AIBA Pro Boxing, the fledging competition that will allow fighters to box professionally in the tournament but also retain their Olympic eligibility.

But Joshua, who was also wanted by Golden Boy Promotions, headed by Richard Schaefer and former six weight world champion Oscar De La Hoya, is expected to sign a four-year deal with Matchroom Boxing, which is now run by Eddie Hearn, Barry's son. 

Matchroom have previously promoted shows featuring Lennox Lewis, Frank Bruno, Nigel Benn, Chris Eubank, Steve Collins and Naseem Hamed.


Joshua's fights are expected to be broadcast live in Britain on Sky Sports.

Joshua, number one in the AIBA rankings, had been forced to delay a decision over his future because he required surgery to repair ankle damage shortly after the Olympics.

Joshua will jon the same Matchroom stable as fellow London 2012 bantamweight gold medallist Luke Campbell, who is due to make his professional debut in home town Hull on Saturday (July 13), and Tom Stalker, the 2010 Commonwealth lightweight champion. 

Joshua is the fourth to move to the paid ranks from the successful London 2012 GB squad.

Anthony Ogogo, the London 2012 middleweight bronze medallist, joined Golden Boy Promotions and has won his first two fights.

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