Anthony Joshua continued his knockout crusade through the heavyweight ranks with a clinical third-round stoppage of American challenger Éric Molina, retaining his IBF world title in dominant fashion before a sold-out crowd at the Manchester Arena.

The atmosphere inside the 21,000-capacity venue was electric, and expectations high as the undefeated British powerhouse stepped into the ring for his second title defence. Facing off against the rugged Molina—ranked seventh by the IBF and a former title challenger—Joshua wasted no time showing why he’s considered the new force in heavyweight boxing.

The opening round offered little more than a feel-out session, with Joshua asserting ring control and Molina opting for a defensive shell, seemingly more interested in survival than trading punches. A sharp left hook from the champion in the closing seconds gave the round its only real highlight.

The second round followed a similar pattern, but Joshua began dialling in his timing. Stalking with intent, he caught Molina with a stiff uppercut that hinted at the punishment to come. Molina, backing up throughout, showed little offensive ambition, while Joshua looked increasingly comfortable.

Round three marked the end of the American’s resistance. With barely two minutes gone, Joshua unleashed a crushing straight right that sent Molina crashing to the canvas. Though the Texan managed to beat the count, he had nothing left in his legs. Joshua closed the show moments later with a relentless barrage that forced the referee to wave it off.

The official result: Joshua wins by technical knockout at 2:02 of round three, bringing his perfect record to 18 wins—all by knockout.

While Molina was never expected to pose a serious threat, this emphatic win sets the stage for what could be one of the biggest heavyweight showdowns in recent memory. Former unified champion Wladimir Klitschko entered the ring post-fight, signalling the long-awaited changing of the guard might finally be at hand.

The April 29th showdown at Wembley Stadium is now officially on the horizon—a battle between the old guard and the new titan.

Joshua’s destruction of Molina wasn’t just another win—it was a warning shot to the rest of the division. The heavyweight throne may soon have a new undisputed king.