Deontay Wilder wasted no time in sending a message to Anthony Joshua after his explosive win over Bermane Stiverne last night.

The WBC heavyweight champion brushed his opponent aside with ease, knocking him to the canvas three times in the first round before the referee called an end to proceedings, and called Joshua out in his post-fight interview.

"I've been waiting on the fight for a long time, listen 'AJ', I declare war on you,” Wilder said. “Do you accept my challenge?

"I've been waiting for a long time. I know I'm the champion, I know I'm the best, are you up for the test?

"The world wants the Joshua fight, come and see me baby, no more hiding, ducking, dodging, no more excuses, I know I'm the best.”

It seems inevitable that Wilder will get his wish to take on Joshua in 2018, and what a fight it would be. Joshua, the IBF, WBA (Super) and IBO champion, boasts a 20-0 record but Wilder possesses the power to cause him problems.

Hearn reveals the text Joshua sent him about Wilder

According to Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, the 2012 Olympic champion is just as eager to face Wilder.

Hearn revealed to Sky Sports that he text Joshua after discovering Wilder’s weight before the Stiverne fight - and he got a three-word response.

“I think 2018, we want to see Deontay Wilder against Anthony Joshua, no question," Hearn said.

"I was really interested to see the weight of Deontay Wilder on the scales, 15st 9. I texted that to Anthony today, Deontay Wilder, 15st 9.

"I shouldn't really tell you the reply, but it was 'I'll eat him,' and the size difference is huge. It's two-and-a-half stone now between those two."

We hope Joshua isn’t willing to enter Mike Tyson territory, but it’s a chilling comment nonetheless.

Fury and Parker are potential 2018 opponents

Joshua can expect to be very busy next year, with Hearn adding that Tyson Fury and Joseph Parker are both potential opponents for the British champion.

"Of course Joshua has told me we want all the belts and that means taking on all the champions," Hearn continued.

"The gentleman over there sitting ringside, Tyson Fury, he's in the plans for 2018 as well.

"Joseph Parker as well. I had a text from his promoter tonight, asking if we fancy making that fight next. Everybody wants to fight Anthony Joshua and you will see him fight everybody."

It’s time to get excited.