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This will be a MASSIVE fight. However, the chances of this fight happening in Africa are not great at the moment.
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The Anthony Joshua thread
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Anthony Joshua could meet Deontay Wilder in potentially the biggest final eliminator the world has ever seen.
Joshua and Wilder will compete in separate bouts on December 23 against Otto Wallin and Joseph Parker respectively.
If both Wilder and Joshua are victorious they will be on course to box each other next year. But even though they are the No 1 and No 2-ranked contenders with the WBC they won't fight each other for that heavyweight championship.
www.skysports.com
Joshua and Wilder will compete in separate bouts on December 23 against Otto Wallin and Joseph Parker respectively.
If both Wilder and Joshua are victorious they will be on course to box each other next year. But even though they are the No 1 and No 2-ranked contenders with the WBC they won't fight each other for that heavyweight championship.
Anthony Joshua could fight Deontay Wilder in an 'unbelievable' final eliminator for Tyson Fury's WBC title
The WBC confirms their heavyweight title will be on the line both in the undisputed Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk fight on February 17 and also an expected subsequent rematch; But Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder could box in a final eliminator if they both win their next fights
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Anthony Joshua doesn't have the heart to fight me - Deontay Wilder
Deontay Wilder believes Anthony Joshua does not "have the heart" to fight him, but says a bout between the former heavyweight world champions is closer than it ever has been.
The pair are on the same bill in Saudi Arabia on Saturday and could fight each other in 2024 if they both win.
"I don't want to say he's 100% afraid, but I think he's 75%," said Wilder.
Joshua told BBC Sport he would "love to fight" Wilder, but is eyeing the IBF title first if he beats Otto Wallin.
Wilder is one of the greatest knockout punchers in heavyweight history and, while not convinced about Joshua's intentions, remains hopeful of getting him in the ring.
"I've learned over the years especially dealing in boxing that nothing is for sure, until it's for sure. And I know that's a little bit confusing, but what's understood doesn't have to be explained," the American told BBC Sport in the build-up to Saturday's event in Riyadh.
"We'll see what happens. The future is bright and we are farther [in talks] than we've ever been in history. I can say that with certainty."
On a stacked card in Saudi Arabia, Britain's Joshua tops the bill against Sweden's Wallin after Wilder takes on former champion Joseph Parker.
Both Joshua and Wilder are on the comeback trail after losing world titles in the past three years to Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury respectively.
Joshua, 34, is a two-time world champion - having unified the WBA, WBO and IBF divisions - with a record of 26 wins and three defeats.
Wilder, 38, held the WBC belt from 2015 to 2020 until he lost to Fury and 42 of his 43 victories have come by knockout.
Joshua is promoted by Matchroom Boxing and Eddie Hearn, while Wilder has spent most of his career with Premier Boxing Champions and adviser Al Haymon, as well as being managed by Shelly Finkel.
On why the pair have not yet met, Wilder said: "Money hasn't been the issue. It comes with not having the heart, the will, the courage to step in the ring.
"I don't really just blame it on Joshua. I blame it on his handlers, on his promotion and his management. Because let's face it Joshua is the cash cow of the company.
"Without him, no money is drawn into Matchroom. We all know that. Not only do I feel Joshua is intimidated of me, but I feel his promoter is as well. That's why the fight that hasn't happened."
Deontay Wilder believes Anthony Joshua does not "have the heart" to fight him, but says a bout between the former heavyweight world champions is closer than it ever has been.
The pair are on the same bill in Saudi Arabia on Saturday and could fight each other in 2024 if they both win.
"I don't want to say he's 100% afraid, but I think he's 75%," said Wilder.
Joshua told BBC Sport he would "love to fight" Wilder, but is eyeing the IBF title first if he beats Otto Wallin.
Wilder is one of the greatest knockout punchers in heavyweight history and, while not convinced about Joshua's intentions, remains hopeful of getting him in the ring.
"I've learned over the years especially dealing in boxing that nothing is for sure, until it's for sure. And I know that's a little bit confusing, but what's understood doesn't have to be explained," the American told BBC Sport in the build-up to Saturday's event in Riyadh.
"We'll see what happens. The future is bright and we are farther [in talks] than we've ever been in history. I can say that with certainty."
On a stacked card in Saudi Arabia, Britain's Joshua tops the bill against Sweden's Wallin after Wilder takes on former champion Joseph Parker.
Both Joshua and Wilder are on the comeback trail after losing world titles in the past three years to Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury respectively.
Joshua, 34, is a two-time world champion - having unified the WBA, WBO and IBF divisions - with a record of 26 wins and three defeats.
Wilder, 38, held the WBC belt from 2015 to 2020 until he lost to Fury and 42 of his 43 victories have come by knockout.
Joshua is promoted by Matchroom Boxing and Eddie Hearn, while Wilder has spent most of his career with Premier Boxing Champions and adviser Al Haymon, as well as being managed by Shelly Finkel.
On why the pair have not yet met, Wilder said: "Money hasn't been the issue. It comes with not having the heart, the will, the courage to step in the ring.
"I don't really just blame it on Joshua. I blame it on his handlers, on his promotion and his management. Because let's face it Joshua is the cash cow of the company.
"Without him, no money is drawn into Matchroom. We all know that. Not only do I feel Joshua is intimidated of me, but I feel his promoter is as well. That's why the fight that hasn't happened."
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Anthony Joshua v Otto Wallin: Briton says he is 'happy' after weighing 13lb heavier than Swede
Anthony Joshua boasted a 13lb advantage over Otto Wallin as the British boxer weighed in for Saturday's must-win heavyweight contest.
Joshua, 34, cut a lean and muscular figure, weighing in at 17st 13lb.
A win over Sweden's Wallin at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia could set up the long-awaited contest against Deontay Wilder.
"Let me focus on what I've got to focus on. Without Saturday night, there's no future," Joshua said.
American Wilder will face fellow former world champion Joseph Parker in Saturday's co-main event.
Saudi organisers are targeting 9 March in Riyadh for Joshua-Wilder if neither fighter suffers injury or a defeat.
"We know there's a proposed date in March' for AJ-Wilder," promoter Eddie Hearn said. "But they've got to win, but win well without any damage. We'll see after tomorrow night."
Wilder comes in light & 'King' Wallin brims with confidence
Despite the magnitude of this card and what is at stake for heavyweight boxing, the weigh-in - as with all fight week events - was closed to the public.
With his hood up, Joshua swaggered to the stage, keeping focus firmly on Wallin. He saluted and acknowledged friends, family and the media watching on.
The weigh-in was strictly business for Joshua, a veteran of so many big fight nights. He kept his hands in his pockets in a head-to-head which culminated with a mutual nod of the head in respect.
The 33-year-old Wallin has been in confident mood all week, promising to deliver an upset against a man who he lost to twice as an amateur.
"I'm a smart fighter. I'm a southpaw," he said. "I trained for this moment for a very long time. I'm very much ready for it.
"Tomorrow there's going to be a new king and he's from Sweden."
With his tall and athletic frame, Wilder, 38, towered over 31-year-old Parker but weighed in low at just 15st 3lb. New Zealand's Parker is 17st 1lb.
The American looked calm and composed, ending his interview by screaming his trademark "bomb squad" catchphrase. His coach Malik Scott said his fighter was at the optimum weight to deliver a knockout.
Parker's trainer, Andy Lee, also promised a stoppage win. "Fight fire with fire. Let your hands go. We expect it [a knockout]," he said, to which Wilder replied: "Bam baby, goodnight."
Miller & Dubois separated by security
Briton Lyndon Arthur weighed in under the light-heavyweight limit for his world-title shot against Russia's WBA world champion Dmitry Bivol on the undercard. British cruiserweight Ellis Zorro - who challenges Australian Jai Opetaia - also came in on weight.
American Jarrell Miller and Britain's Daniel Dubois clashed in the head-to-head following their weigh-in.
Nicknamed 'Big Baby', Miller, 35,hit the scales at an astonishing 23st 11lb, significantly heavier than Dubois who weighed 17st 1lb.
With security already poised to intervene, American Miller pushed 26-year-old Dubois in the chest. The aggrieved Londoner tried to get past security as a foul-mouth Miller shouted obscenities towards his upcoming opponent.
"I'm ready to fight. I'll see him in the ring," Dubois said. "I'm not worried about none of that."
Source: BBC
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This will be a close fight. I am expecting Joshua to win after a split decision.
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Anthony Joshua to fight former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia
Two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua will take on former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in a boxing bout in Saudi Arabia, organisers said.
Joshua had announced plans to face ex-WBC champion Deontay Wilder if they had both won while fighting on the same card in Riyadh on December 23rd.
However, Wilder was handed a stunning upset defeat by New Zealand's Joseph Parker last month, before Joshua clinched a knockout win over Otto Wallin later that night.
“Tonight we confirm it’s a Done Deal,” Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn on Friday said in a post on social medial platform X, formerly known as Twitter.
Source: Irish Times
www.irishtimes.com
Two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua will take on former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in a boxing bout in Saudi Arabia, organisers said.
Joshua had announced plans to face ex-WBC champion Deontay Wilder if they had both won while fighting on the same card in Riyadh on December 23rd.
However, Wilder was handed a stunning upset defeat by New Zealand's Joseph Parker last month, before Joshua clinched a knockout win over Otto Wallin later that night.
“Tonight we confirm it’s a Done Deal,” Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn on Friday said in a post on social medial platform X, formerly known as Twitter.
Source: Irish Times
Anthony Joshua to fight former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia
Cameroonian-French boxer impressed in fight against Tyson Fury last year
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Anthony Joshua v Francis Ngannou: Heavyweight fight set for 8 March in Saudi Arabia
Great Britain's Anthony Joshua will face MMA fighter Francis Ngannou in a heavyweight contest on 8 March in Saudi Arabia.
Joshua, 34, had previously described a potential bout with Cameroon-born Ngannou as a "gimmick fight".
The 37-year-old former UFC champion only made his professional boxing debut in October, when he knocked down Tyson Fury before losing a close decision.
Joshua and Ngannou will meet at a news conference on Monday evening in London.
Former UFC heavyweight king Ngannou stunned the boxing world last year when he sent the undefeated Fury to the canvas with a left hook.
The 35-year-old Briton, who recovered to win the 10-round bout by split decision, will fight Oleksandr Usyk on 17 February for the right to become the first undisputed heavyweight champion since 1999.
Fury is the WBC champion, with Ukraine's Usyk, 36, holding the WBA, WBO and IBF belts.
Saudi organisers were intent on hosting Joshua v Deontay Wilder on 9 March, but the American's points defeat by Joseph Parker on 23 December scuppered those plans.
Joshua stopped Otto Wallin on the same card and organisers were determined to find a bout for the Watford fighter on the same weekend the Wilder showdown had been pencilled in for.
Joshua v Ngannou will take place on a Friday to avoid a clash with the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix which is due to be held in Jeddah on Saturday, 9 March.
BBC
Great Britain's Anthony Joshua will face MMA fighter Francis Ngannou in a heavyweight contest on 8 March in Saudi Arabia.
Joshua, 34, had previously described a potential bout with Cameroon-born Ngannou as a "gimmick fight".
The 37-year-old former UFC champion only made his professional boxing debut in October, when he knocked down Tyson Fury before losing a close decision.
Joshua and Ngannou will meet at a news conference on Monday evening in London.
Former UFC heavyweight king Ngannou stunned the boxing world last year when he sent the undefeated Fury to the canvas with a left hook.
The 35-year-old Briton, who recovered to win the 10-round bout by split decision, will fight Oleksandr Usyk on 17 February for the right to become the first undisputed heavyweight champion since 1999.
Fury is the WBC champion, with Ukraine's Usyk, 36, holding the WBA, WBO and IBF belts.
Saudi organisers were intent on hosting Joshua v Deontay Wilder on 9 March, but the American's points defeat by Joseph Parker on 23 December scuppered those plans.
Joshua stopped Otto Wallin on the same card and organisers were determined to find a bout for the Watford fighter on the same weekend the Wilder showdown had been pencilled in for.
Joshua v Ngannou will take place on a Friday to avoid a clash with the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix which is due to be held in Jeddah on Saturday, 9 March.
BBC
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The winner of Anthony Joshua's fight with Francis Ngannou could challenge the victor of Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk's undisputed heavyweight title clash later this year, according to promoter Frank Warren.
SKY
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Risky for kids though! 
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Anthony Joshua said "no conversations were had between me and Tyson Fury" after the pair met in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday before the former's heavyweight fight with Francis Ngannou on Friday.
The Britons have rarely crossed paths despite their long-running rivalry.
Joshua, Fury and Ngannou took a picture together, alongside footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and Saudi powerbroker Turki Alalshikh.
"I'm quite territorial," Joshua told BBC Sport.
"When I'm in a room, I'll call them my enemies or my competitors. I don't really smile. I can't fake it.
"There's a lot of fake people on these fight weeks. I can't really fake it with it with people."
Promoter Eddie Hearn described Fury as being "on golden form", saying 'The Gypsy King' did not directly speak to Joshua but did take aim at Ngannou for suggesting he won their fight in October.
Joshua - who was not in the room when Fury and Ngannou clashed - added: "I heard something happened between Ngannou but Ngannou would get him a headlock and chop him up.
"All this boxing stuff, on the streets MMA rules 100%."
BBC
The Britons have rarely crossed paths despite their long-running rivalry.
Joshua, Fury and Ngannou took a picture together, alongside footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and Saudi powerbroker Turki Alalshikh.
"I'm quite territorial," Joshua told BBC Sport.
"When I'm in a room, I'll call them my enemies or my competitors. I don't really smile. I can't fake it.
"There's a lot of fake people on these fight weeks. I can't really fake it with it with people."
Promoter Eddie Hearn described Fury as being "on golden form", saying 'The Gypsy King' did not directly speak to Joshua but did take aim at Ngannou for suggesting he won their fight in October.
Joshua - who was not in the room when Fury and Ngannou clashed - added: "I heard something happened between Ngannou but Ngannou would get him a headlock and chop him up.
"All this boxing stuff, on the streets MMA rules 100%."
BBC
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Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou: Briton delivers statement win with second-round knockout
Briton Anthony Joshua delivered the most powerful statement to the heavyweight division with a destructive second-round knockout win over Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia.
Joshua, 34, floored the UFC champion in the first round and early in the second.
A dazed Ngannou rose to his feet in Riyadh but was stunned by an explosive and formidable right moments later as the referee halted the contest.
The 37-year-old appeared to be out before he even hit the canvas and required medical treatment.
"I'm going back to my cage and when they let me out, I'll fight again," Joshua said, as WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury watched on from ringside.
Fury made tough work of Ngannou in October when he was dropped by the debutant before edging a points win.
"When I saw the fight with Tyson Fury I thought 'I want some of that'. [Ngannou] is a great champion and this doesn't take anything away from his capabilities," said Joshua.
"I told him not to leave boxing. He's two fights in and he's fought the best."
Victory is two-time world champion Joshua's fourth in 11 months, and keeps alive his ambition of recapturing a world title.
Eddie Hearn called for Joshua, who he has promoted throughout the heavyweight's pro career, to face the winner of Fury and Oleksandr Usyk.
The pair will fight to become the undisputed heavyweight world champion in May, with a rematch later in the year.
"In five years I won't be fighting," Joshua added. "Eddie Hearn and my team will shape my future."
A knockout for the highlight reels
With the card running more than an hour later than planned, it was 03:20 local time when master of ceremonies Michael Buffer introduced Ngannou to the ring.
Dressed in a pink and white robe with gold tassels, Ngannou made the solitary walk down the aisle to the tune of 'God's Plan' by Drake.
A frowning Joshua looked full of purpose as he strutted to the ring with confidence. He kneeled down and recited a prayer in his corner.
Joshua drew the loudest reaction, a mixture of boos and jeers. He seemed completely undeterred, his eyes set firmly on Ngannou.
And it was a near-perfect start for the Watford-born fighter. Ngannou had just narrowly missed with a lead left hand as Joshua remained calm and composed.
AJ extended his backhand to land a flush right down the pipe. By flooring Ngannou, he had done within three minutes what Fury failed to do in 10 rounds four months ago.
A stunned Ngannou got up on the count of eight and saw out the round.
Joshua has become a smarter fighter in recent years, honing his technical ability. He doubled his jab, bided his time and waited for an opening.
Another right hand had Ngannou clamouring on the floor. He beat the count in the nick of time but the writing was on the wall.
The finishing punch was one which will undoubtedly take centre stage in future Joshua knockout highlights reel.
A statement win in Saudi
A well-schooled amateur boasting Olympic gold and a two-time world champion with wins against some of the best in the division, Joshua's experience prevails in the early hours in Riyadh.
The razzmatazz of Saudi boxing was on show, albeit still under the backdrop of critics claiming the Kingdom is using high-profile sporting events to 'sports wash' away its human rights records.
While it was not the star studded affair seen in past event in the region, former champions Amir Khan and Manny Pacquiao rubbed shoulders with the likes of football manager Jose Mourinho and Brazilian World Cup winner Ronaldo.
The card was billed as 'knockout chaos' but the Saudi crowd - as they usually do - behaved in a very quiet and orderly manner.
The pressure was on Joshua to deliver a message to rival Fury. A fighter who has faced an intense level of scrutiny in recent years, Joshua acknowledged the impact of trainer Ben Davison.
Davison was in Joshua's corner for the second time, having also overseen December's dominant win over Otto Wallin.
"I didn't want to disrespect Ngannou but he's not been hit by someone like AJ before," Davison told BBC Radio 5 Live.
"I'll let people judge whether he is improving. The only way to find out who is the best is to get the winner of Fury and Usyk. That's the only thing that makes sense."
Whether Ngannou listens to Joshua's advice and returns to the sport anytime soon awaits to be soon, but the 'Predator' is a proven winner - whether it be in life, the UFC octagon or a boxing ring.
His journey has taken him from a 12-year-old working in sand quarry in Cameroon to living on the streets of Paris, before becoming UFC champion.
Although his childhood dream of becoming a boxing world champion may never become reality, Ngannou is set to return to MMA later this year with the PFL in search of his next prey.
BBC
Briton Anthony Joshua delivered the most powerful statement to the heavyweight division with a destructive second-round knockout win over Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia.
Joshua, 34, floored the UFC champion in the first round and early in the second.
A dazed Ngannou rose to his feet in Riyadh but was stunned by an explosive and formidable right moments later as the referee halted the contest.
The 37-year-old appeared to be out before he even hit the canvas and required medical treatment.
"I'm going back to my cage and when they let me out, I'll fight again," Joshua said, as WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury watched on from ringside.
Fury made tough work of Ngannou in October when he was dropped by the debutant before edging a points win.
"When I saw the fight with Tyson Fury I thought 'I want some of that'. [Ngannou] is a great champion and this doesn't take anything away from his capabilities," said Joshua.
"I told him not to leave boxing. He's two fights in and he's fought the best."
Victory is two-time world champion Joshua's fourth in 11 months, and keeps alive his ambition of recapturing a world title.
Eddie Hearn called for Joshua, who he has promoted throughout the heavyweight's pro career, to face the winner of Fury and Oleksandr Usyk.
The pair will fight to become the undisputed heavyweight world champion in May, with a rematch later in the year.
"In five years I won't be fighting," Joshua added. "Eddie Hearn and my team will shape my future."
A knockout for the highlight reels
With the card running more than an hour later than planned, it was 03:20 local time when master of ceremonies Michael Buffer introduced Ngannou to the ring.
Dressed in a pink and white robe with gold tassels, Ngannou made the solitary walk down the aisle to the tune of 'God's Plan' by Drake.
A frowning Joshua looked full of purpose as he strutted to the ring with confidence. He kneeled down and recited a prayer in his corner.
Joshua drew the loudest reaction, a mixture of boos and jeers. He seemed completely undeterred, his eyes set firmly on Ngannou.
And it was a near-perfect start for the Watford-born fighter. Ngannou had just narrowly missed with a lead left hand as Joshua remained calm and composed.
AJ extended his backhand to land a flush right down the pipe. By flooring Ngannou, he had done within three minutes what Fury failed to do in 10 rounds four months ago.
A stunned Ngannou got up on the count of eight and saw out the round.
Joshua has become a smarter fighter in recent years, honing his technical ability. He doubled his jab, bided his time and waited for an opening.
Another right hand had Ngannou clamouring on the floor. He beat the count in the nick of time but the writing was on the wall.
The finishing punch was one which will undoubtedly take centre stage in future Joshua knockout highlights reel.
A statement win in Saudi
A well-schooled amateur boasting Olympic gold and a two-time world champion with wins against some of the best in the division, Joshua's experience prevails in the early hours in Riyadh.
The razzmatazz of Saudi boxing was on show, albeit still under the backdrop of critics claiming the Kingdom is using high-profile sporting events to 'sports wash' away its human rights records.
While it was not the star studded affair seen in past event in the region, former champions Amir Khan and Manny Pacquiao rubbed shoulders with the likes of football manager Jose Mourinho and Brazilian World Cup winner Ronaldo.
The card was billed as 'knockout chaos' but the Saudi crowd - as they usually do - behaved in a very quiet and orderly manner.
The pressure was on Joshua to deliver a message to rival Fury. A fighter who has faced an intense level of scrutiny in recent years, Joshua acknowledged the impact of trainer Ben Davison.
Davison was in Joshua's corner for the second time, having also overseen December's dominant win over Otto Wallin.
"I didn't want to disrespect Ngannou but he's not been hit by someone like AJ before," Davison told BBC Radio 5 Live.
"I'll let people judge whether he is improving. The only way to find out who is the best is to get the winner of Fury and Usyk. That's the only thing that makes sense."
Whether Ngannou listens to Joshua's advice and returns to the sport anytime soon awaits to be soon, but the 'Predator' is a proven winner - whether it be in life, the UFC octagon or a boxing ring.
His journey has taken him from a 12-year-old working in sand quarry in Cameroon to living on the streets of Paris, before becoming UFC champion.
Although his childhood dream of becoming a boxing world champion may never become reality, Ngannou is set to return to MMA later this year with the PFL in search of his next prey.
BBC
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Joshua targets September return at Wembley
British heavyweight Anthony Joshua says he expects to fight at Wembley Stadium in September.The 34-year-old stopped Francis Ngannou in March in his last fight, his fourth win in a row.
Matchroom are planning an event at Wembley and Joshua said it would be on either 20 or 21 September.
"Whenever they tell me there's a date, you know I'll be ready 100%," Joshua told TalkSport., external "It's going be in London, Wembley Stadium."
Joshua could fight the winner of Daniel Dubois v Filip Hrgovic or Deontay Wilder v Zhilei Zhang.
All four heavyweights fight on 1 June as part Matchroom Boxing's five-versus-five card against Queensberry Promotions in Saudi Arabia.
Joshua was set to fight Wilder last March before the American suffered a shock loss to Joseph Parker in December.
The Londoner fought MMA fighter-turned-boxer Ngannou instead and knocked him out in two rounds in a dominant performance.
Wilder, 38, decided against retiring in the wake of his last defeat and said a future fight with Joshua can still happen.
"People are always going to want to see that fight no matter what," Wilder told BBC Sport. "I put it in the high 90s [percentage chance of happening]."
Source: BBC
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Boxing fans from all over the world are waiting to see him in action.
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Joshua begins talks to fight Dubois in September
Heavyweight Anthony Joshua has begun talks to fight fellow Briton Daniel Dubois in September.
Joshua, 34, is expected to fight at Wembley Stadium on 21 September and was ringside to watch Dubois beat Filip Hrgovic last Saturday in Saudi Arabia.
Dubois’ promoter Frank Warren confirmed talks were under way.
Dubois, 26, stopped Hrgovic in their IBF ‘interim’ title fight, putting himself in prime position to be called as the next mandatory challenger to Oleksandr Usyk.
Ukrainian Usyk has requested his IBF belt not be stripped so the undisputed title can remain on the line when he fights Tyson Fury in their rematch on 21 December.
If the IBF decides to strip Usyk, Dubois could be elevated to world champion and that could then make a fight with Joshua a title bout.
Joshua is on a four-fight winning streak and is already a two-time unified world champion.
After losing those world titles in successive defeats by Usyk, Joshua has rebuilt himself in fine fashion, producing three stoppages in his four wins.
Dubois too has been on the comeback trail with two victories since failing in his own bid to dethrone Usyk in August 2023.
The Londoner stopped Jarrell Miller and Hrgovic, the latter being a fight Dubois was an underdog in.
BBC
Heavyweight Anthony Joshua has begun talks to fight fellow Briton Daniel Dubois in September.
Joshua, 34, is expected to fight at Wembley Stadium on 21 September and was ringside to watch Dubois beat Filip Hrgovic last Saturday in Saudi Arabia.
Dubois’ promoter Frank Warren confirmed talks were under way.
Dubois, 26, stopped Hrgovic in their IBF ‘interim’ title fight, putting himself in prime position to be called as the next mandatory challenger to Oleksandr Usyk.
Ukrainian Usyk has requested his IBF belt not be stripped so the undisputed title can remain on the line when he fights Tyson Fury in their rematch on 21 December.
If the IBF decides to strip Usyk, Dubois could be elevated to world champion and that could then make a fight with Joshua a title bout.
Joshua is on a four-fight winning streak and is already a two-time unified world champion.
After losing those world titles in successive defeats by Usyk, Joshua has rebuilt himself in fine fashion, producing three stoppages in his four wins.
Dubois too has been on the comeback trail with two victories since failing in his own bid to dethrone Usyk in August 2023.
The Londoner stopped Jarrell Miller and Hrgovic, the latter being a fight Dubois was an underdog in.
BBC
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Anthony Joshua doesn't want son to take up boxing
British heavyweight Anthony Joshua says it would not be a "wise decision" for his son to follow in his footsteps and become a professional boxer.The two-time former unified world heavyweight champion told BBC Radio 4's Desert Island Discs he would much prefer if his son Joseph Joshua, known as JJ, became an accountant instead, though he added that he wanted him to carve out his own future.
Joshua also spoke to host Lauren Laverne about how he got into trouble with the police for fighting when he was a teenager living in Watford and how he became homeless aged 17.
Reflecting on his career in boxing, Joshua said he found the sport at a time he needed it most.
He told Desert Island Discs: "I’d usually sit outside the estate and just have a cigarette. Then I started getting in trouble... I just wanted to make money, that was my goal," he told the programme.
“I was constantly getting in trouble."
Joshua first entered the ring aged 18 when his cousin suggested he take up the sport, which he said became helpful to "channel my energy".
Five years later, Joshua became a household name when he picked up gold at the London 2012 Olympics.
A year later, Joshua decided to turn pro - the breakout moment for him coming at age 27, when he met the Ukrainian Wladimir Klitschko in April 2017.
In a sold out Wembley Stadium, roared on by a crowd of 90,000, AJ - as he is known to his fans - floored the 41-year old two-time world champion in the 11th round in one of the most gruelling but entertaining heavyweight contests.
Later, he said the victory over Klitschko changed his career.
AJ won all of his first 22 professional bouts, 21 of them inside the distance, to establish himself as the most renowned knockout artist of his generation.
But the low point in the boxer’s career came in 2022, when he failed to recapture the unified WBO, WBA and IBF heavyweight titles from his nemesis, Ukraine’s Oleksandr Usyk in Saudi Arabia.
As he tried to come to terms with the loss, Joshua at first denied it had a profound effect on him.
“I don’t feel anything,” he had said after Usyk defeated him in a spectacular rematch, before throwing two championship belts from the ring.
But at a post-fight press conference, Joshua was apologetic, choked back tears and held his head in his hands, saying the defeat “tore him apart”.
Speaking to Desert Island Discs, he said he has broken down over losing - adding that one time he went into a "dark room" for five days where he could not talk to anyone in order to "heal from the inside mentally".
Joshua said it was around this time that he realised he needed to have "more meaningful conversations" with his family.
Beyond the world of boxing, AJ is known to be a fiercely private man for whom loyalty to family is of paramount importance.
He grew up as one of seven children living between his mum's house and his dad's place.
In various interviews he spoke fondly about his mother Yeta Odusanya, and his son, JJ.
Soon after his career took off, he bought a place for his mum to live in.
“When you step up as a man in the house, freedom is making sure your parents are taken care of as well," he told the BBC.
"For me, that’s freedom knowing that no matter where I am in the world, my mum’s happy, she’s taken care of."
Anthony Joshua on Desert Island Discs: I want my son to be an accountant, not a boxer
The British champion tells BBC's Desert Island Discs he is not too keen on his son, JJ, entering the ring.
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Joshua to fight Dubois for world title at Wembley
Anthony Joshua will face fellow Briton Daniel Dubois for the IBF heavyweight title at Wembley Stadium on 21 September.
Undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk vacated the belt on Tuesday and interim champion Dubois, 26, was elevated to champion status as a result.
Two-time world champion Joshua, 34, is on a four-fight winning streak and has three stoppages in his past three bouts.
BBC
Anthony Joshua will face fellow Briton Daniel Dubois for the IBF heavyweight title at Wembley Stadium on 21 September.
Undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk vacated the belt on Tuesday and interim champion Dubois, 26, was elevated to champion status as a result.
Two-time world champion Joshua, 34, is on a four-fight winning streak and has three stoppages in his past three bouts.
BBC
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World boxing champion Anthony Joshua named Riyadh Season ambassador
World boxing champion Anthony Joshua has been named the new ambassador of ‘Riyadh Season,’ the Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA) Turki Alalshikh announced on Wednesday.
In his role as ambassador, the British world boxing champion will promote a wide range of global boxing events during the season and attend several Riyadh Season events.
Riyadh Season is an annual festival held across Saudi Arabia that features thousands of concerts, sporting events, dining experiences and other unique cultural events. Since its launch in 2019, the event has welcomed millions of visitors from all over the world.
“We are delighted to announce the selection of Anthony Joshua, one of the most distinguished boxers in the world of boxing, as an ambassador for boxing for Riyadh season. He is a remarkable champion in the world of boxing,” Alalshikh said in a statement posted on X.
The chairman added that the boxer’s appointment as the Riyadh Season ambassador would further contribute to expanding the reach of this sport.
For his part, Joshua said: “I’ve seen first-hand both through competing and attending events in Saudi Arabia just how impactful Riyadh Season can be, so I am excited to start this cooperation.”
“When you think of Riyadh Season, you think of best-in-class events and I am looking forward now to playing my part in enhancing that reputation further,” he added.
Joshua is one of the leading names in boxing, having won the Olympic gold medal in the heavyweight category in London in 2012. Since then, he has achieved multiple milestones, including WBO, WBA, and IBF titles.
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Anthony Joshua's boxing plan for UFC champion looks doomed to fail
Anthony Joshua may want to help UFC champion Alex Pereira forge a boxing career - but his plan his little chance of success.
Joshua took to social media over the weekend to suggest light-heavyweight champion Pereira should switch from MMA to boxing after his win over Jiri Prochazka last month. "Alex Pereira should make a boxing debut one day," Joshua wrote.
"I’m honoured you think so," Pereira replied. "It’s always been my dream, I’m 37 I cannot make a career in it so who do you recommend I fight?" Joshua added: "The options are endless champ. I am sure something can be done. Drop 258 MGT [Joshua’s management company] a line."
But Pereira recently signed an eight-fight deal with the UFC and the promotion's CEO Dana White is unlikely to entertain one of his star attractions taking a break from MMA. He did allow Conor McGregor to fight Floyd Mayweather in 2017 but has shown little enthusiasm for a repeat performance.
Revealing his new long-term deal earlier this year, Pereira told The MMA Hour: "Friday I signed, the start of this fight, eight more. My relationship with the UFC is really good. I’m very grateful by the way the UFC and my management team get together. They’ve been doing great things together. I think the UFC also appreciates who I am because I’m a composed guy, I’m focused, and I deliver.
"When I first joined UFC, they gave me three fights. After the first fight, they renewed me for eight, Dana did after the [Sean] Strickland fight. Now, they just gave me another eight and of course, I bring [things] to the table, too. They’re happy with that but they’re very good with us, too, so, we cannot complain. We’re in a perfect relationship."
Should Pereira make the move to boxing, he would be following in the footsteps of former heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou who took on Tyson Fury last year. The Cameroonian almost stunned the former world champion, dropping him in the third round before being outpointed over 10 rounds.
Ngannou was then obliterated by Joshua in March when the Brit knocked out his rival in the second round. Ngannou is expected to return to MMA later this year while Joshua will take on Daniel Dubois for the vacant IBF heavyweight title at Wembley in September.
www.mirror.co.uk
Anthony Joshua may want to help UFC champion Alex Pereira forge a boxing career - but his plan his little chance of success.
Joshua took to social media over the weekend to suggest light-heavyweight champion Pereira should switch from MMA to boxing after his win over Jiri Prochazka last month. "Alex Pereira should make a boxing debut one day," Joshua wrote.
"I’m honoured you think so," Pereira replied. "It’s always been my dream, I’m 37 I cannot make a career in it so who do you recommend I fight?" Joshua added: "The options are endless champ. I am sure something can be done. Drop 258 MGT [Joshua’s management company] a line."
But Pereira recently signed an eight-fight deal with the UFC and the promotion's CEO Dana White is unlikely to entertain one of his star attractions taking a break from MMA. He did allow Conor McGregor to fight Floyd Mayweather in 2017 but has shown little enthusiasm for a repeat performance.
Revealing his new long-term deal earlier this year, Pereira told The MMA Hour: "Friday I signed, the start of this fight, eight more. My relationship with the UFC is really good. I’m very grateful by the way the UFC and my management team get together. They’ve been doing great things together. I think the UFC also appreciates who I am because I’m a composed guy, I’m focused, and I deliver.
"When I first joined UFC, they gave me three fights. After the first fight, they renewed me for eight, Dana did after the [Sean] Strickland fight. Now, they just gave me another eight and of course, I bring [things] to the table, too. They’re happy with that but they’re very good with us, too, so, we cannot complain. We’re in a perfect relationship."
Should Pereira make the move to boxing, he would be following in the footsteps of former heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou who took on Tyson Fury last year. The Cameroonian almost stunned the former world champion, dropping him in the third round before being outpointed over 10 rounds.
Ngannou was then obliterated by Joshua in March when the Brit knocked out his rival in the second round. Ngannou is expected to return to MMA later this year while Joshua will take on Daniel Dubois for the vacant IBF heavyweight title at Wembley in September.
Anthony Joshua's boxing plan for UFC champion looks doomed to fail
Joshua has told UFC light-heavyweight champion Alex Pereira to get in touch regarding a potential boxing fight
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Joshua urges UFC's Pereira to switch to boxing
Anthony Joshua has urged two-weight UFC champion Alex Pereira to switch to boxing.
The Brazilian retained his light-heavyweight title in fine style against Jiri Prochazka last month, adding another knockout to his impressive resume.
Joshua, a two-time heavyweight champion, sent Pereira a message on social media, saying: "Alex Pereira should make a boxing debut one day."
Pereira has quickly become of the UFC's biggest stars, winning world titles in two divisions since making his octagon debut in 2021.
"I’m honoured you think so," Pereira said in response to Joshua. "It’s always been my dream - [but] I’m 37, I cannot make a career in it, so who do you recommend I fight?"
Joshua replied by saying the "options are endless", urging Pereira to get in touch with his management company about transitioning to boxing.
Pereira headlined UFC 300 earlier this year and stepped in at two weeks' notice to replace Conor McGregor as the main event for UFC 303.
He would not be the first mixed martial arts star to try boxing in recent times, with former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou taking on Tyson Fury and Joshua in a boxing ring.
Ngannou, 37, gave a good account of himself in his pro boxing debut against Fury - going 10 rounds with the then unbeaten heavyweight - but was knocked out in two rounds by Joshua in March.
Pereira transitioned from kickboxing to MMA and has teased a move up to heavyweight after winning titles at light-heavyweight and middleweight.
Ngannou repeatedly stated boxing offered much bigger fight purses than the UFC, which he left to pursue a career in boxing.
BBC
Anthony Joshua has urged two-weight UFC champion Alex Pereira to switch to boxing.
The Brazilian retained his light-heavyweight title in fine style against Jiri Prochazka last month, adding another knockout to his impressive resume.
Joshua, a two-time heavyweight champion, sent Pereira a message on social media, saying: "Alex Pereira should make a boxing debut one day."
Pereira has quickly become of the UFC's biggest stars, winning world titles in two divisions since making his octagon debut in 2021.
"I’m honoured you think so," Pereira said in response to Joshua. "It’s always been my dream - [but] I’m 37, I cannot make a career in it, so who do you recommend I fight?"
Joshua replied by saying the "options are endless", urging Pereira to get in touch with his management company about transitioning to boxing.
Pereira headlined UFC 300 earlier this year and stepped in at two weeks' notice to replace Conor McGregor as the main event for UFC 303.
He would not be the first mixed martial arts star to try boxing in recent times, with former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou taking on Tyson Fury and Joshua in a boxing ring.
Ngannou, 37, gave a good account of himself in his pro boxing debut against Fury - going 10 rounds with the then unbeaten heavyweight - but was knocked out in two rounds by Joshua in March.
Pereira transitioned from kickboxing to MMA and has teased a move up to heavyweight after winning titles at light-heavyweight and middleweight.
Ngannou repeatedly stated boxing offered much bigger fight purses than the UFC, which he left to pursue a career in boxing.
BBC
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Anthony Joshua ‘wants no part’ of giant 18st heavyweight rival and it is ‘worst kept secret in boxing’
ANTHONY JOSHUA "wants no part" of giant 18 stone Zhilei Zhang - and "it's the worst kept secret in boxing."
Zhang, 41, has put himself into heavyweight title contention following victories over the likes of Joe Joyce and Deontay Wilder.
And he has long called out AJ, who in 2012 beat the Chinese star on the way to Olympic gold in London.
Zhang's manager Terry Lane claimed Joshua has rejected the chance to fight his old amateur rival and everyone in the boxing business knows it.
Lane told Sky Sports: "I think it's the worst kept secret in boxing that AJ wants no part of Zhilei. There's been opportunities for them to fight.
"It's just very clear that there's no interest on AJ's end, he just wants to avoid the fight, which is unfortunate."
Zhang twice stopped Joyce before losing to Joseph Parker and then bouncing back with victory over Wilder.
Joshua, 34, meanwhile challenges for 26-year-old Daniel Dubois' IBF title on September 21 at Wembley.
Oleksandr Usyk, 37, rematches Tyson Fury, 35, on December 21 following his undisputed title victory in May.
And Zhang has his eyes on the top names and belts in the division.
Lane added: "A world title shot is the aim. AJ and Fury are the main desires for Zhang - those are two guys he wants to fight.
"I don't know if Usyk is serious about moving back down to cruiserweight, but I think Zhilei has more than earned a shot against Fury and AJ.
"The problem with Zhilei is he's feared. He's a risky fight for anybody, a big-punching southpaw.
"He ruined the plans for Joyce to fight Fury and he ruined the plans for Deontay Wilder to fight AJ, so he's known as a risky party pooper, spoiler, so getting these guys in the ring is proving to be tough."
Anthony Joshua's 'refusal to fight' 18st rival is 'worst kept secret in boxing'
ANTHONY JOSHUA “wants no part” of giant 18 stone Zhilei Zhang – and “it’s the worst kept secret in boxing.” Zhang, 41, has put himself into heavyweight title con…
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I've been through a lot of pain - Joshua
Anthony Joshua says he has "been through a lot of pain" over the past two years as he bids to become a three-time world champion against fellow British heavyweight Daniel Dubois on Saturday.
The 34-year-old will take on IBF belt-holder Dubois, 27, in front of a post-war British record 96,000 fans at Wembley Stadium.
Joshua has rebuilt and worked his way back to mandatory challenger position having broken down in tears after losing a second consecutive fight to Oleksandr Usyk in August 2022.
"I've worked hard and been through a lot of pain, and I've worked hard to get better," he told BBC Sport.
"Hopefully those experiences won't happen again because as you saw that night, I don't like losing."
The 2012 Olympic gold medallist is on a four-fight winning streak and brutally knocked out Francis Ngannou in his last outing.
"I think I'm gifted with an ability to fight and compete," Joshua said. "In boxing you're able to read certain tendencies, you're able to read your opponent, so I can always have an eye for that.
"But there's a supreme level that you can take it to. And it's happened over the past eight or 10 months. I've really honed in on those skills."
Anthony Joshua says he has "been through a lot of pain" over the past two years as he bids to become a three-time world champion against fellow British heavyweight Daniel Dubois on Saturday.
The 34-year-old will take on IBF belt-holder Dubois, 27, in front of a post-war British record 96,000 fans at Wembley Stadium.
Joshua has rebuilt and worked his way back to mandatory challenger position having broken down in tears after losing a second consecutive fight to Oleksandr Usyk in August 2022.
"I've worked hard and been through a lot of pain, and I've worked hard to get better," he told BBC Sport.
"Hopefully those experiences won't happen again because as you saw that night, I don't like losing."
The 2012 Olympic gold medallist is on a four-fight winning streak and brutally knocked out Francis Ngannou in his last outing.
"I think I'm gifted with an ability to fight and compete," Joshua said. "In boxing you're able to read certain tendencies, you're able to read your opponent, so I can always have an eye for that.
"But there's a supreme level that you can take it to. And it's happened over the past eight or 10 months. I've really honed in on those skills."
Anthony Joshua vs Daniel Dubois: Joshua says he has "been through a lot of pain" on journey to world-title shot
Anthony Joshua says he has "been through a lot of pain" over the past two years as he bids to become a three-time world champion against fellow British heavyweight Daniel Dubois on Saturday.
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Anthony Joshua has chance at greatness, but must defeat 'incredibly dangerous' Daniel Dubois to become three-time world champion
Back fighting at Wembley for the first time since 2020, Anthony Joshua has the chance tonight to put himself into a small, elite group of heavyweights.
To be a three-time heavyweight champion of the world is a rare thing - only five men have done it.
Publicly Joshua said it is not his priority: "It would be phenomenal, but greatness is in character as well.
"If you're a good person, you're a great person, you don't need a title."
But his promoter Eddie Hearn said he understands what the win would mean.
"I think this is the first time I've heard him allude a little bit to the legacy part because for him it's all about the performance," he told Sky News.
"But he knows what's on the line on Saturday. It's a very small group - three-times heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali, Lennox Lewis - there aren't many.
"I think he'd realise the magnitude of what this would mean and how it would position him for a shot at the Fury vs Usyk 2 winner."
There's no doubt Joshua wants the win desperately, his fifth in a row since a double loss to Oleksandr Usyk. Lose tonight and he's back down the pecking order with another rebuild ahead of him at the age of 34.
He said it's a "must-win fight - I'm going to do my best - what will be will be".
"I want to win [this] a lot - a lot - I work hard, I work really hard, I kept my head down and what will be will be now and I'll leave it to the big man upstairs," Joshua said.
But Hearn describes a possible defeat as a catastrophe - and says it is a "what if" question that has been asked a lot.
"Since the Andy Ruiz loss people have asked that question," he tells Sky News, "but [Joshua's] enjoying boxing more than ever in my opinion".
"He looks better than ever, he's more of a complete fighter than ever, but of course when you lose it's catastrophic.
"The difference here between winning and losing is a very wide margin - if you win, you issue yourself as almost king of the sport.
"If you lose, you've lost to Daniel Dubois, the younger fighter, it's a bigger climb back up to the top. We must win on Saturday night."
Daniel Dubois, his younger opponent by seven years, stands in the way and he has it all to prove.
The holder of the IBF belt, he was awarded that world title in June as a result of winning an eliminator bout against Filip Hrgovic, and because Usyk wasn't in a position to defend it due to his upcoming rematch with Tyson Fury.
He's young, he's hungry, he's on a roll.
"It's all meant to be. I'm in the right place at the right time, I just need to stay in my bubble," he said.
"I need to legitimise it, win and show the world that I'm the man."
Hearn recognises the danger of Dubois, who famously rocked AJ during a sparring session when he was younger.
"He's incredibly dangerous," he said. "People keep asking me if [Dubois will] be able to control his emotions and the madness of 96,000, and I think the answer is no and that makes him more dangerous.
"Because whatever the game plan is, I think he is going to come out like a train, come out wild and that makes him more dangerous - but he can also walk on to something big from Anthony Joshua early in the fight.
"I cannot imagine a world where this fight goes 12 rounds. These are two very fast very big punching heavyweights they're dangerous every second of this fight."
Frank Warren, the veteran promoter of Dubois, thinks it's time for his man to show what he's made of and it could be a "changing of the guard" in the heavyweight scene.
Anthony Joshua has chance at greatness, but must defeat 'incredibly dangerous' Daniel Dubois to become three-time world champion
Anthony Joshua admits a win would be "phenomenal" against his younger opponent Daniel Dubois - propelling him to three-time heavyweight champion of the world. His opponent has other ideas though.
Amjid Javed
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Dubois absolutely spanked joshua there, time for him to retire
Double Trouble
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Wow DD knocked AJ senseless
Defo time for AJ to hang the gloves he’s made his millions
Defo time for AJ to hang the gloves he’s made his millions
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Daniel Dubois wins by fifth-round knockout!
Joshua can’t get out of the way of the punches. Yet almost from nowhere Joshua lands a huge uppercut! Dubois is hurt! A firefight breaks out ... and in the midst of it Dubois cracks Joshua with a right hand on the chin that drops him to the canvas yet again! Joshua is on his side as McDonnell delivers the count ... five, six, seven ... he’s not going to make it! The referee has counted Joshua out and Daniel Dubois has won by fifth-round knockout!
“Are you not entertained?” Dubois shouts to the crowd to start off his post-fight interview, a deft callback to the Gladiator theme from fight week. “Thank you very much, you know. It’s been a long journey. I’m grateful to be in this position.”
He adds: “I’m a gladiator, you know? I’m just a warrior to the bitter end. I’m just ready to go. I want to go to the top level of this game and reach my potential. God bless you all.”
He’s asked what’s been behind the turnaround in his performances, which included emphatic wins over Jarrell Miller and Filip Hrgović over the past year.
“Just behind the scenes, the work with my dad, all my family and my strong team. They’ve helped me get through this,” he says. “I’ve just been on a roller-coaster ride and this is my time. It’s my redemption story. I’m not going to stop until I reach my potential.”
Source: The Guardian
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I need to watch that again.
A great fight.
A great fight.
ElRaja
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pbly gonna have a rematch, AJ looked terrible but i reckon he still will want to go at it again, esp given it'll get great viewership, super entertaining fight, id watch it again, lol.
Amjid Javed
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The KO looks better each time you watch it
aboveandbeyond
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Shocking era of heavyweights. Bar Usyk, rest are bums.
shaz619
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Well well well! where are all the AJ groupies at! I been telling you casuals for years, you deserve this humiliation 
Amjid Javed
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Well well well! where are all the AJ groupies at! I been telling you casuals for years, you deserve this humiliation
amen brother
Amjid Javed
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Bet joshua cheerleader bellew must be crying his eyes out
Suleiman
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Bro, I literally logged into this thread to tag youWell well well! where are all the AJ groupies at! I been telling you casuals for years, you deserve this humiliation
Your character arc Vs Anthony Joshua has come full circle, even though he was thoroughly exposed Vs Usyk and Ruiz I, but the last few of his fans still were going strong.
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WHat a knock out this is... Joshua was all over the place in this fight. Looked unprepared for this.
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Joshua future in doubt after mauling by dominant Dubois
Daniel Dubois sensationally dismantled fellow Briton Anthony Joshua in five rounds to catapult himself into global sporting stardom in front of 96,000 fans at Wembley Stadium.
The 27-year-old dropped Joshua multiple times to retain the IBF heavyweight title and leave his domestic rival's career in ruins.
Londoner Dubois stopped Joshua, 34, with an incredible counter right hook to secure the biggest win of his 24-fight career.
"Are you not entertained?" Dubois shouted post-fight, to huge cheers in the packed-out stadium.
"I'm a gladiator. I am a warrior to the bitter end. I want to get to the top level of this sport and reach my potential."
Joshua's bid to become a three-time champion and return to the division's top table ended in the most dramatic and unexpected fashion.
AJ – who won his first world title more than eight years ago – suffered a fourth loss in his 32nd bout, but hinted he will continue in the sport and has a clause to trigger a rematch with Dubois.
"You know I'm ready to kick off in the ring but I'm going to keep it respectful," he said.
"Before I came here, I always say to myself I'm a fighter for life. You keep rolling the dice."
An ecstatic Dubois, meanwhile, enjoyed the crowning moment which had eluded him after he was elevated to world champion when Oleksandr Usyk vacated the belt.
Destructive Dubois starts and ends with a bang
Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher had already hyped up a lively crowd with a musical interlude before the main event - and Dubois soon proved to be a Rock 'N' Roll Star.
Despite being champion and going against tradition, he walked first to the ring to jeers as fireworks shot up above the iconic Wembley arches.
A sea of camera phones further illuminated the national stadium when fan-favourite Joshua – his eyes firmly focused on the ring – entered to a medley which started with the Godfather theme and ended with 'War' from Rocky IV.
Only four of their 49 combined wins had gone the distance, and the expected early knockdown came in the first round from underdog Dubois when he connected with a devastating overhand right in the closing seconds.
Joshua slumped to the canvas and had still not recovered in the second. Dubois did not take a backward step, stalking his opponent around the ring and finding success with his rod-like jab.
Perhaps Joshua was still haunted by those sparring stories from several years ago when Dubois reportedly rocked him.
The 2012 Olympic gold medallist was reeling in the third as his pumped-up opponent whipped in a left hook and Joshua appeared to touch the floor with his glove. It was not counted as a knockdown, but Dubois continued the assault until Joshua was floored again.
He was dropped twice more in the third, the second ruled a slip, but the writing was clearly on the wall. Unified champion Usyk and Tyson Fury, who contest a rematch in December, watched on from ringside, scarcely believing how the fight was unfolding.
The chants of "AJ, AJ" had quietened.
After a closer fourth round, Joshua, for the first time in the fight, landed a clean punch in the fifth, only for it to spur Dubois into action.
A counter right-hand, a punch that will live forever in the memory of Dubois and all those in attendance, sent Joshua down for the final time.
The former poster boy of British boxing was left scrambling across the floor, desperately trying to get up, but unable to beat the count.
A 'redemption story' and new dawn for heavyweight division
After one of British boxing's biggest shocks, Joshua's future is under scrutiny, despite him suggesting he may continue in the sport.
The rebuild mission since losing a second consecutive fight to Usyk in 2022 was going smoothly, fuelled by a desire to join legends such as Muhammad Ali, Evander Holyfield, Lennox Lewis and Vitali Klitschko as a three-time champion.
But Joshua came up against a fearless and younger fighter determined to prove his worth on the world stage.
"I had a fast and sharp opponent, a lot of mistakes from my end," he admitted afterwards.
The lure of the long-awaited and even longer-mooted super-fight with Fury also suffered a major blow, even if the 'Gypsy King' loses to Usyk in December's world-title rematch.
Dubois' future, in contrast, is gleaming brightly.
"I want to get to the top of this sport and reach my full potential," he said.
His father, Stan, was in his corner and just like he did against Jarrell Miller and Filip Hrgovic, Dubois Sr willed his son into action from the opening bell.
While he is no stranger to high-pressure situations and large crowds, little could have prepared Dubois for such a momentous night on the grandest stage - and four years on from a loss to another Briton in Joe Joyce, when he suffered a fractured eye socket and was called a "quitter" for taking a knee when failing to beat the count.
Yet the Greenwich fighter revelled in the spotlight again on a night which has marked a new dawn for heavyweight boxing.
"I've been on a rollercoaster run, this is my time, this is my redemption story," added Dubois.
BBC
Daniel Dubois sensationally dismantled fellow Briton Anthony Joshua in five rounds to catapult himself into global sporting stardom in front of 96,000 fans at Wembley Stadium.
The 27-year-old dropped Joshua multiple times to retain the IBF heavyweight title and leave his domestic rival's career in ruins.
Londoner Dubois stopped Joshua, 34, with an incredible counter right hook to secure the biggest win of his 24-fight career.
"Are you not entertained?" Dubois shouted post-fight, to huge cheers in the packed-out stadium.
"I'm a gladiator. I am a warrior to the bitter end. I want to get to the top level of this sport and reach my potential."
Joshua's bid to become a three-time champion and return to the division's top table ended in the most dramatic and unexpected fashion.
AJ – who won his first world title more than eight years ago – suffered a fourth loss in his 32nd bout, but hinted he will continue in the sport and has a clause to trigger a rematch with Dubois.
"You know I'm ready to kick off in the ring but I'm going to keep it respectful," he said.
"Before I came here, I always say to myself I'm a fighter for life. You keep rolling the dice."
An ecstatic Dubois, meanwhile, enjoyed the crowning moment which had eluded him after he was elevated to world champion when Oleksandr Usyk vacated the belt.
Destructive Dubois starts and ends with a bang
Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher had already hyped up a lively crowd with a musical interlude before the main event - and Dubois soon proved to be a Rock 'N' Roll Star.
Despite being champion and going against tradition, he walked first to the ring to jeers as fireworks shot up above the iconic Wembley arches.
A sea of camera phones further illuminated the national stadium when fan-favourite Joshua – his eyes firmly focused on the ring – entered to a medley which started with the Godfather theme and ended with 'War' from Rocky IV.
Only four of their 49 combined wins had gone the distance, and the expected early knockdown came in the first round from underdog Dubois when he connected with a devastating overhand right in the closing seconds.
Joshua slumped to the canvas and had still not recovered in the second. Dubois did not take a backward step, stalking his opponent around the ring and finding success with his rod-like jab.
Perhaps Joshua was still haunted by those sparring stories from several years ago when Dubois reportedly rocked him.
The 2012 Olympic gold medallist was reeling in the third as his pumped-up opponent whipped in a left hook and Joshua appeared to touch the floor with his glove. It was not counted as a knockdown, but Dubois continued the assault until Joshua was floored again.
He was dropped twice more in the third, the second ruled a slip, but the writing was clearly on the wall. Unified champion Usyk and Tyson Fury, who contest a rematch in December, watched on from ringside, scarcely believing how the fight was unfolding.
The chants of "AJ, AJ" had quietened.
After a closer fourth round, Joshua, for the first time in the fight, landed a clean punch in the fifth, only for it to spur Dubois into action.
A counter right-hand, a punch that will live forever in the memory of Dubois and all those in attendance, sent Joshua down for the final time.
The former poster boy of British boxing was left scrambling across the floor, desperately trying to get up, but unable to beat the count.
A 'redemption story' and new dawn for heavyweight division
After one of British boxing's biggest shocks, Joshua's future is under scrutiny, despite him suggesting he may continue in the sport.
The rebuild mission since losing a second consecutive fight to Usyk in 2022 was going smoothly, fuelled by a desire to join legends such as Muhammad Ali, Evander Holyfield, Lennox Lewis and Vitali Klitschko as a three-time champion.
But Joshua came up against a fearless and younger fighter determined to prove his worth on the world stage.
"I had a fast and sharp opponent, a lot of mistakes from my end," he admitted afterwards.
The lure of the long-awaited and even longer-mooted super-fight with Fury also suffered a major blow, even if the 'Gypsy King' loses to Usyk in December's world-title rematch.
Dubois' future, in contrast, is gleaming brightly.
"I want to get to the top of this sport and reach my full potential," he said.
His father, Stan, was in his corner and just like he did against Jarrell Miller and Filip Hrgovic, Dubois Sr willed his son into action from the opening bell.
While he is no stranger to high-pressure situations and large crowds, little could have prepared Dubois for such a momentous night on the grandest stage - and four years on from a loss to another Briton in Joe Joyce, when he suffered a fractured eye socket and was called a "quitter" for taking a knee when failing to beat the count.
Yet the Greenwich fighter revelled in the spotlight again on a night which has marked a new dawn for heavyweight boxing.
"I've been on a rollercoaster run, this is my time, this is my redemption story," added Dubois.
BBC
IMMY69
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You were right and I said this a couple of years ago...Well well well! where are all the AJ groupies at! I been telling you casuals for years, you deserve this humiliation
All hype, no substance
shaz619
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Bet joshua cheerleader bellew must be crying his eyes out
He is not just his cheerleader but personal lover, would have loved to see a live reaction of his face lmao
aboveandbeyond
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Agree. Bodybuilder ( joshua) and Gypsy Queen have conned the public for to long.
It's taken a Cruiserweight to come up and clean out the decision. LOL
shaz619
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Jokes aside, I’ve been less critical of him in recent years, I don’t think he was ever as good as his fans suggested but I still consider him a world class fighter who has done a lot to bring more interest to the sport in this country (even though the casual fans are so toxic & ignorant in general).
I think it’s a bit harsh to call fighters completely useless after a few defeats. Not the same comparison at all but it’s like calling Ali crap for losing to Spinks or calling Tyson rubbish for losing to Kevin McBride (what a rubbish era it was all of a sudden right just because they lost those fights
).To a lot of people Daniel Dubois is some random bum, but not to the people who’ve followed his career closely since he signed with Warren. He has been on mine and @KingKhanWC radar since he was making waves for Team GB, fighters get written off too easily after some defeats but he has rebounded and his talent was evident during the early days of his career.
I missed this live and just watching now Rd 1, DD starts confidently with his feet and jab, AJ just looks a little cold to me and DD’s stance is so tight, I think from the top of my head AJ holds all the physical advantages but because DD has closed the distance he actually appears to be considerably bigger. Beautiful right there in the first minute or two, he cuts AJ off with his quicker feet and better jab, landing a clean right hand which AJ doesn’t truly recover from, AJ is fighting on fumes, his defence is all over the place, his hands are a lot lower, he lands a good upper cut but is immediately turned and bam, down he goes again and gets up right away! you always take the full count! another 20 seconds and the fight would have been over! DD is as good a finisher in this division as Wilder use to be.
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shaz619
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Bro, I literally logged into this thread to tag you
Your character arc Vs Anthony Joshua has come full circle, even though he was thoroughly exposed Vs Usyk and Ruiz I, but the last few of his fans still were going strong.
Mah gawd the last of his P.Diddy esque cult are squealing rofl
It always amused me when they deal with this by propagating the limited view that everybody is crap and the era is weak. Like the covid fans from the bacha party, we have our equivalent in boxing, they were sleeping during era of the Klit before we saw the likes of Fury, Wilder and AJ emerge.
Unfortunately AJ is the weakest of the bunch, failed to beat any top name in their peak form, but doesn’t mean his talent wasn’t world class and he gave us so many exciting/memorable nights like yesterday
Amjid Javed
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Looks like joshua and his trainer were a bit to over confident going into the fight, it seemed as though they thought they had the edge in power and speed. Also thinking that dubois would keep walking onto shots like he did vs hrgovic. The low hands stance was always asking for trouble. As Joshua is always in danger from counters if a fighter gets inside his Jab. We saw ruiz expose this in 1st fight. Dubois did the same. Dubois, was brave enough to get inside and close, shorten the range which mean Joshua's footwork was like it was in cement.
Looks like Don Charles, Dubois dad and even the Pep talk from Usyk (after dubois lost), seem to have changed his mindset but also confidence.
Whilst dubois now can wait for usyk (after he beats Fury again). I think Parker, chisora or zhang would be a good opponent next for dubois.
Looks like Don Charles, Dubois dad and even the Pep talk from Usyk (after dubois lost), seem to have changed his mindset but also confidence.
Whilst dubois now can wait for usyk (after he beats Fury again). I think Parker, chisora or zhang would be a good opponent next for dubois.
aboveandbeyond
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The Saudis have taken boxing events to a new level all together. That last night was a epic event.
Can't wait for the A - list Bivol v Artur Beterbiev showdown.
Can't wait for the A - list Bivol v Artur Beterbiev showdown.
Amjid Javed
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That will be an awesome fight. With both fighters in their prime.
KingKhanWC
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Jokes aside, I’ve been less critical of him in recent years, I don’t think he was ever as good as his fans suggested but I still consider him a world class fighter who has done a lot to bring more interest to the sport in this country (even though the casual fans are so toxic & ignorant in general).
I think it’s a bit harsh to call fighters completely useless after a few defeats. Not the same comparison at all but it’s like calling Ali crap for losing to Spinks or calling Tyson rubbish for losing to Kevin McBride (what a rubbish era it was all of a sudden right just because they lost those fights
To a lot of people Daniel Dubois is some random bum, but not to the people who’ve followed his career closely since he signed with Warren. He has been on mine and @KingKhanWC radar since he was making waves for Team GB, fighters get written off too easily after some defeats but he has rebounded and his talent was evident during the early days of his career.
I missed this live and just watching now Rd 1, DD starts confidently with his feet and jab, AJ just looks a little cold to me and DD’s stance is so tight, I think from the top of my head AJ holds all the physical advantages but because DD has closed the distance he actually appears to be considerably bigger. Beautiful right there in the first minute or two, he cuts AJ off with his quicker feet and better jab, landing a clean right hand which AJ doesn’t truly recover from, AJ is fighting on fumes, his defence is all over the place, his hands are a lot lower, he lands a good upper cut but is immediately turned and bam, down he goes again and gets up right away! you always take the full count! another 20 seconds and the fight would have been over! DD is as good a finisher in this division as Wilder use to be.
Fantastic performance from Daniel . There is a lot of criticism atm for AJ & fair but Daniel was impressive last night ! His jab was like fire bolt , fast , accurate & powerful . At HW a strong jab alone can rock you , which is what Daniel did .
Daniel sparred AJ when he was 17 & even in sparring he hurt him . It’s was evident AJ was nervous stepping into the ring nearly 10 years later knowing he has improved vastly inc his power .
Very simple plan from Daniel , use his spearing jab , keep the gloves up high & throw bombs when in range, it worked a treat .
Joshua has always been a limited fighter who hasn’t beaten anyone elite . Vlad was old & nearly stopped him . His skills are limited but you can hide these limitations in HW division due to power which he has like most HWs. He hasn’t fought anyone decent after his losses to Uysk & going up against Daniel who was ring ready from his recent fights , it was only going to be a ko win or get a beat down & get knocked out .
Bookies had Daniel 5-1 to win by KO. A lot of people made a lot of money last night .
aboveandbeyond
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Yes. Can't wait for it. Two Elite fighters, at the top of their game.
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Joshua will fight Fury or Dubois next - Hearn
Anthony Joshua will definitely face either Daniel Dubois or Tyson Fury next, says the heavyweight's promoter Eddie Hearn.
Briton Joshua, 35, suffered a fourth career defeat when he was stopped by IBF world champion Dubois at Wembley Stadium in September.
Fury, who has long been linked with a super-fight with Joshua, will face unified champion Oleksandr Usyk on 21 December after losing to the Ukrainian in May.
"It's weird saying it after a knockout defeat but AJ is actually in a really good position," Matchroom boss Hearn told BBC Sport.
"We're going to fight Dubois or Fury next. That's it. No other interest or warm-up."
Dubois, 27, dropped Joshua multiple times in front of a reported British record crowd of 96,000 before the fight was halted in the fifth round.
BBC
Anthony Joshua will definitely face either Daniel Dubois or Tyson Fury next, says the heavyweight's promoter Eddie Hearn.
Briton Joshua, 35, suffered a fourth career defeat when he was stopped by IBF world champion Dubois at Wembley Stadium in September.
Fury, who has long been linked with a super-fight with Joshua, will face unified champion Oleksandr Usyk on 21 December after losing to the Ukrainian in May.
"It's weird saying it after a knockout defeat but AJ is actually in a really good position," Matchroom boss Hearn told BBC Sport.
"We're going to fight Dubois or Fury next. That's it. No other interest or warm-up."
Dubois, 27, dropped Joshua multiple times in front of a reported British record crowd of 96,000 before the fight was halted in the fifth round.
BBC
shaz619
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Hearns is not going to throw Joshua in with Dubois again, the cow is going to have its final milking with a fight with Fury
FearlessRoar
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Anthony Joshua admits to ‘turbulent times’ after Daniel Dubois defeat
Anthony Joshua has admitted to going through “turbulent times” since losing to Daniel Dubois, while revealing his priority fight for 2025.
In September, Joshua was dropped multiple times en route to a fifth-round loss to Dubois, who retained the IBF heavyweight belt at Wembley.
Talk quickly turned to a rematch, but Dubois has since been paired with Joseph Parker, whom he will face in February. Meanwhile, a long-awaited clash between Joshua and Tyson Fury looks close again, after the latter lost to Oleksandr Usyk in December.
“2025, I am targeting Tyson Fury,” Joshua said during his meeting with Nigerian president Bola Tinubu, per multiple reports.
Of his loss to Dubois, “AJ” added: “[It] makes me hungry, makes me want to work harder. Time is of the essence, time is limited, so I just want to put in more work.
“When I look back, I believe I could have done more in 2024. I have another chance in 2025 to do more, and I am going to make sure I take every opportunity that comes my way.
“I should have won but I didn’t, and I am going to go again. My life is up and down, so I have to get used to the turbulent times and keep riding the wave. I can’t stop now. I have to keep going until I reach my destination.”
Joshua, 35, started 2024 in fine fashion, brutally knocking out Francis Ngannou in early March. But after beating the ex-UFC champion, Joshua’s fortunes changed, as he was dismantled by fellow Briton Dubois.
As a result, Joshua’s pursuit of a third world-title reign is up in the air. But a dream match with compatriot Fury would not need a title.
In late December, after Fury lost to Usyk on points for the second time in seven months, Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn said AJ wants to fight twice in 2025.
“[The first fight will be] in May or June,” Hearn told iFL TV. “He’s not in full training yet. He’s probably ready to resume training in January.
“At the moment, you’ve got the Dubois fight on 22 February, and you’ve got to see what Fury wants to do. We’re not in a terrible rush. AJ will fight twice in 2025. Once in the summer and once in the winter.
“If we can’t make the Dubois fight and if Fury doesn’t want to fight, then you have to make the decision to fight somebody, or do you wait for those fights?
“I can’t speak on behalf of AJ, for who he’s prepared to fight. But what I know is the focus is Daniel Dubois or Tyson Fury. Of course, Joshua’s done it all. If he gets Fury on his resume, he’s boxed virtually everybody of his era.”
Anthony Joshua admits to ‘turbulent times’ after Daniel Dubois defeat
Joshua was dropped multiple times en route to a fifth-round loss to Dubois in September
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Joshua to have elbow surgery before targeting return
Anthony Joshua says he will undergo elbow surgery this month before making a return to the ring.
The two-time world heavyweight champion has been out of action since suffering a devastating fifth-round knockout against Daniel Dubois at Wembley in September.
Joshua, 35, said he was "trying to get my body right" before making a comeback.
"I've got to have a little surgery on my elbow, a small surgery, sometime in May," Joshua told broadcaster Dazn.
He added: "That will see me out of the gym for maybe six to eight weeks and then, as soon as I'm healed, I'll be back."
Joshua, who has won 28 of his 32 fights, was at ringside in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Saturday to watch Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez defeat William Scull on points.
Promoter Eddie Hearn said in April that he remains confident a fight between Joshua and fellow two-time heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury could still happen.
Hearn said all it would take is a direct message on social media between the fighters - despite Fury announcing in January that he had retired from boxing.
Joshua won Olympic super heavyweight gold at London 2012 before winning his first world title in 2016.
The Briton unified the WBA, IBF and WBO world heavyweight titles in 2018 and reclaimed them from Andy Ruiz Jr in 2019, before being dethroned by Oleksandr Usyk in 2021.
BBC
Anthony Joshua says he will undergo elbow surgery this month before making a return to the ring.
The two-time world heavyweight champion has been out of action since suffering a devastating fifth-round knockout against Daniel Dubois at Wembley in September.
Joshua, 35, said he was "trying to get my body right" before making a comeback.
"I've got to have a little surgery on my elbow, a small surgery, sometime in May," Joshua told broadcaster Dazn.
He added: "That will see me out of the gym for maybe six to eight weeks and then, as soon as I'm healed, I'll be back."
Joshua, who has won 28 of his 32 fights, was at ringside in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Saturday to watch Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez defeat William Scull on points.
Promoter Eddie Hearn said in April that he remains confident a fight between Joshua and fellow two-time heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury could still happen.
Hearn said all it would take is a direct message on social media between the fighters - despite Fury announcing in January that he had retired from boxing.
Joshua won Olympic super heavyweight gold at London 2012 before winning his first world title in 2016.
The Briton unified the WBA, IBF and WBO world heavyweight titles in 2018 and reclaimed them from Andy Ruiz Jr in 2019, before being dethroned by Oleksandr Usyk in 2021.
BBC
shaz619
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I think Dubois hit him too hard:
Suleiman
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Sad to see the fall of grace of guys like AJ, Wilder and Fury.
I wasn’t a fan of AJ either like @shaz619 dude seemed fake and after the Usyk defeat the “real him” came out and after those humblings I respect him more.
But yeah seems like just yesterday Wilder and AJ were trying to negotiate a fight and ruling the HW scene with the belts amongst them until Fury came back and even then these 3 were considered the best for a bit there.
Let’s see what the next gen has..
I wasn’t a fan of AJ either like @shaz619 dude seemed fake and after the Usyk defeat the “real him” came out and after those humblings I respect him more.
But yeah seems like just yesterday Wilder and AJ were trying to negotiate a fight and ruling the HW scene with the belts amongst them until Fury came back and even then these 3 were considered the best for a bit there.
Let’s see what the next gen has..
shaz619
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They were certainly not appreciated enough, but that’s just the nature of it with life in general, in time perhaps they will be. Their HW era was a three headed monster for a long time, Usyk just wiped out these guys past their peak form and is the top man of a division in transition; respect for his achievements though and he didn’t need to take the Dubois rematch….
aboveandbeyond
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And Usyk himself is Older than AJ and Fury.
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