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via Reuters

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via Reuters

Anthony Joshua is returning to the ring, but not with a bang. Since 2019, British boxing’s blue-eyed boy has been on the backpedal. But, first, the defeat of the American Andy Ruiz Jr. and two back-to-back losses handed over by the Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk raised doubt over the thirty-three-year-old former champion’s skills. Hence the situation warranted an imminent return.

Last year, post the split decision loss to Usyk, an all-British clash with reigning champion Tyson Fury raised excitement but to no avail as the prospect collapsed at the altar of negotiations. Then there were talks about a fight against another American and former Heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder. But putting all gabfest to rest, in February this year, the announcement came about a face-off against American Heavyweight boxer Jermaine Franklin on April 1 at Wembley Stadium.

So with only a few days before their fight, the two Heavyweights squared off against each other in front of the camera. For Anthony Joshua, the comeback fight is critical to laying a credible claim to a title. He reportedly took the training regimen seriously and appeared all muscled up and beefy. But it was the Saginaw, Michigan native who seems to have shocked everyone with a downscaled appearance compared to the Briton.

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Many wasted no time letting the world know what they felt and thought.

Is Anthony Joshua fighting in a Heavyweight bout?

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User @malex200311 reckoned that Jermaine Franklin appeared gangling in comparison to Anthony Joshua!

Wondering at the American boxer’s appearance, @round_boxing seems doubtful about his weight. However, Franklin appeared suitable for the Cruiserweight, according to @round_boxing. 

@pauljohnsontog also reflected on the apparent differences in physicality between the two boxers. A disadvantage that may prove expensive for Franklin during the bout.@lionsman33 stated matter-of-factly that Joshua had made clear muscular gains.@AlderMalik also concurred with the rest of the crowd that, in comparison to Joshua, Jermaine Franklin appeared skin-and-bone. 

Franklin, who is yet to win a title, grabbed headlines last year for a much-contested loss to Dillian Whyte. He is expected to present a reasonable resistance to the powerful and clear-favorite Joshua. The latter, on the hand, needs the win to make a clear statement. His contention for future challenges commences with the first step on April 1.

Read More: “There Is No Competition”: Anthony Joshua Doesn’t Consider Tyson Fury a Threat to This Title

What’s your take on the reactions? Let us know your views and opinions in the comments below.

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