Getty
NEW YORK , United States – 1 June 2019; Anthony Joshua after defeat to Andy Ruiz Jr in their IBF, WBA, WBO & IBO World Heavyweight Championship fight at Madison Square Garden in New York, USA. (Photo By Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile via Getty Images)
Getty
NEW YORK , United States – 1 June 2019; Anthony Joshua after defeat to Andy Ruiz Jr in their IBF, WBA, WBO & IBO World Heavyweight Championship fight at Madison Square Garden in New York, USA. (Photo By Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile via Getty Images)
After facing two losses to Oleksandr Usyk, British heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua has been on a mission to revitalize his career and regain his former glory. Switching trainers and bouncing back with a decision win over Jermaine Franklin, Joshua is now setting his sights on a pivotal rematch with long-time rival Dillian Whyte.
Watch What’s Trending Now!
While AJ’s comeback bout against Franklin displayed his grit and determination. However, it also left lingering doubts about his once formidable finishing instinct. With this in mind, Joshua recognizes that his rematch with Whyte is the true litmus test to silence any lingering doubts and reclaim his status as a dominant force in the heavyweight division. The first encounter between Joshua and Whyte in 2015 was a spectacle, with both fighters displaying raw power and tenacity. Joshua ultimately secured a highlight reel knockout, adding another victory to his record. As the rematch approaches, Joshua acknowledges the significance of this bout in shaping his future in the sport. A convincing win against Whyte would instill a renewed sense of confidence and momentum in his quest to become a three-time world champion.
Anthony Joshua’s quest to rediscover his desire and determination in the Dillian Whyte rematch
In a recent interview with Lightweight Boxing Joshua reflects on the journey he has undertaken in his boxing career. He ponders over the crucial question of what remains in his arsenal – both in terms of desire and determination. He also acknowledges the reality that the life of a fighter is not without its limitations.
Top Stories
“What do I have left? What desire do I have? Because amongst the skill and experience I’ve gathered, sometimes what we said back then, two thugs in the ring, that can also take you far,” he said.
Moreover, he added that boxing can take a toll on a fighter’s physical and mental strength, and he understands that there is only so much “steel” that one can retain before it gets worn down. Despite this, he holds on to the belief that the tenacity and determination that characterized his early days in the sport can still propel him forward.
“When you have that fire … But because of the history of fighting and boxing, fighters only have so much steel in them before it gets knocked out of them,” he added.
Joshua is rumored to face former champion Deontay Wilder in Saudi Arabia this December. However, Joshua dismissed the ongoing talk of a potential fight and is locked in for his upcoming matchup.
Anthony Joshua’s no-nonsense approach: Ignoring distractions and focusing on his own path
In a pre-fight press conference leading up to his bout with Whyte, Joshua expressed frustration with the shenanigans and lies he perceives in the boxing world. Joshua points out Tyson Fury’s recent claim of training for Oleksandr Usyk, only to have his trainer, Sugar Hill Steward, refute the statement.
Amidst the speculation and uncertainty, The Briton remains focused on his own path and refuses to engage with what he deems as time wasters.
Joshua’s straightforward approach to the heavyweight division reflects his determination to cut through the noise and distractions. With his eyes set on his own journey, he avoids getting entangled in discussions about potential matchups that may not materialize. As he stays true to his goals, the boxing world will eagerly wait to see how his career unfolds.
What did you think about Joshua reflecting on his desire to compete ahead of the Whyte rematch? Let us know in the comments.
Watch This Story: Top 5 Highest-Grossing PPV Fights of Anthony Joshua
Written by
Edited by
Arijit Saha