Anthony Joshua paid tribute to Andy Ruiz Jr after his shock defeat at Madison Square Garden.
Ruiz Jr stunned the boxing world by becoming the first man to beat Joshua and take the Briton's IBF, WBA (Super) and WBO titles in New York.
The Mexican-American sent the now-former champion to the mat four times before his seventh round TKO – with Joshua offering no excuses in his post-fight interview.
"Boxing is a tough sport, but I train hard and I got beaten by a good fighter, it will be interesting to see how far he goes, but this is all part of the journey,” he told Sky Sports Box Office.
"Congratulations to the first Mexican heavyweight champion. We bounce back.
"This is the risk we take, every fighter deserves respect so congratulations to him. I respect every fighter, this is all part of the legacy, it's how strong I came back.
"He's a champion for now, I shall return."
Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn says a rematch in the UK in November or December is expected.
