• Heavyweight

Anthony Joshua returns against Jason Gavern in Newcastle

Anthony Joshua's last outing saw him beat Michael Sprott, who defeated Jason Gavern in the Prizefighter final in 2013 © Getty Images

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Anthony Joshua will return to the ring following a five-month layoff to face Jason Gavern at Newcastle's Metro Radio Arena on April 4 in preparation for his rescheduled showdown with Kevin Johnson.

The Olympic heavyweight champion, who has finished each of his 10 professional fights with a knockout inside three rounds, will take on the 37-year-old American over eight rounds in his first fight since suffering a stress fracture in his back in January.

Joshua was forced to postpone his fight with Johnson until May 30, making his bout with Gavern a warm-up for the American, who fought Vitali Klitschko for the WBC title in 2009.

"It's been frustrating being out of action but the injury has totally healed up and I will be firing on all cylinders next Saturday," Joshua said.

"Fans in the north east are mad about sport and I am sure it's going to be a great atmosphere. I plan to put on a show for them."

Gavern, who reached the final of Prizefighter: The Heavyweights in 2013 and has stepped into the ring with the likes of Deontay Wilder and Lucas Brown, plans to give Joshua a stern examination.

"I'm excited to return to the UK," said Gavern, who lost his 19th of his 49 professional fights on points to Gerald Washington earlier this month. "I had a great time in and out of the ring at Prizefighter and the fans were great.

"Anthony Joshua is a big talent but I'm confident I have the experience and have operated at a much higher level. Either way, we are going to find out plenty about AJ next week in Newcastle.

"I love fighting in the UK and England in particular as the boxing fans are so knowledgeable and passionate about the sport."

Promoter Eddie Hearn added: "It's great to see Anthony return from injury and I'm looking forward to seeing him face Jason in Newcastle.

"It's a nice test on his return, Gavern has plenty of experience but Anthony has plenty of frustration to let out and north east boxing fans can expect an explosive performance in Newcastle next week."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd