Anthony Joshua vs Andy Ruiz Jr: Brit explains why Deontay Wilder has made a big mistake opting for Luis Ortiz rematch

The Brit puts his world titles on the line against Andy Ruiz on Saturday, a week after his American foe wiped out Dominic Breazeale in a round

Jack Rathborn
Thursday 30 May 2019 09:26 EDT
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Anthony Joshua appears for public workout in New York ahead of Andy Ruiz Jr fight

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Anthony Joshua believes Deontay Wilder has made a big mistake by snubbing a superfight against himself to rematch Luiz Ortiz next.

Wilder announced he will fight the Cuban once again, with his move becoming public just a matter of days before the Brit defends his world title in New York against Andy Ruiz Jr.

But Joshua believes the American is giving himself less chance of becoming the undisputed world heavyweight champion with every month that passes.

“Believe me I would rather fight Wilder in two years. Because I know I will get better all the time. And at 33 he’s the one who’s getting older,” Joshua said.

“I’ve had to be pushing to fight him because of all the public demand. And I understand that.

“If it wasn’t for the pressure from which I can’t hide like he can, I could be fighting Joe Bloggs, fighting anyone.

“Wilder’s not under that kind of pressure because nobody knows him. Although it’s not fair that I’ve been accused of ducking him.’ Joshua feels he’s been rushed since turning professional the year after he won gold, as a late starter in boxing, at the London Olympics.

‘It’s been like that since after only my third pro fight I was being asked when I was going to fight Wladimir Klitschko.

Joshua believes he is trending in the right direction (Getty)
Joshua believes he is trending in the right direction (Getty) (Getty Images)

‘Now imagine two years ago when I was beating Charles Martin for the world title after knocking out Dillian Whyte.

‘Compare the type of fighter I was then to where I’ve got to now.

‘Then think about where I’ll be when I’m fighting Wilder in a year or two. I’ll be a lot more sound.’

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