British heavyweight sensation Anthony Joshua has been forced to postpone his next fight against veteran Kevin Johnson after aggravating a back injury.
Joshua has been making waves in the flagship division of the sport, following up his Olympic gold medal at London 2012 by knocking out his first ten opponents in the professional ranks.
Former world title contender Johnson was expected to provide tougher opposition in their scheduled meeting at the O2 Arena on 31 January.
But Joshua has suffered a Pars Stress Fracture - which is usually on one side, instead of the centre, of the lower back and is caused by overuse that worsens with most forms of exercise.
The 25-year-old subsequently required immediate medical attention and physiotherapy, and has now been ordered to rest.
He hopes to be able to return on 4 April against an unnamed opponent at the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle.
"I trained so hard over Christmas and the press conference with Johnson was so lively that I was really looking forward to putting in a great performance," said Joshua.
"It's bad news for myself and for the fans that have bought tickets. I hope to be able to put on a fan zone at the weigh-in and the fight itself to meet the fans.
"I will be competing many times this year, but this injury is something that I need to get sorted as soon as possible."
Joshua had laughed off Johnson's proposed bet at their press conference, with the American suggesting the loser donate half their purse to charity in the event of a knockout.
The show in London will still go ahead, with Kevin Mitchell likely to top the bill when he takes on Daniel Estrada in a final eliminator for a world title.
Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn added: "It's disappointing to lose Anthony from this great card, but after receiving news from the scan, he was left with no option but to rest his back.
"He picked up a niggle in the (Michael) Sprott camp and had a good month's rest after but it hasn't been 100% in camp and the results gave him no option.
"He hopes to resume punching in early February and come back with a bang in Newcastle on 4 April."
