Anthony Joshua ‘solid as a rock’ at new lighter weight ahead of Oleksandr Usyk fight
Joshua will take on Usyk on 25 September in a heavyweight bout
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.British boxer Anthony Joshua insists he will be “solid as a rock” against Oleksandr Usyk on 25 September despite being at a lighter weight.
Joshua says now he’s lighter he will be able to deal with the threats Usyk will pose and the tactic has worked for the heavyweight champion previously.
He slimmed down for his rematch against Andy Ruiz Jr after the American stripped him of his titles in 2019. The 31-year-old came back to deliver a clinical performance which saw him reclaim his belts.
When asked about his weight ahead of Usyk, Joshua said: “I‘m going to come in light. Run around the ring, try not to get hit. I’ll be on my bike all night. I don’t want to get out of 140 heartbeats per minute, so I’m really skinny.
“Listen, I’m as solid as a rock. I’m strong, I’m good at the weight. I don’t really focus on my weight. It’s just training. I just put in the work. These are different opponents and I’ve learnt about training for specific opponents. These guys go longer rounds.
“When you’re knocking out guys in three or four rounds, it’s different. I studied boxing and what works for me and weight is not a priority.”
Joshua will once again be risking his WBA, WBO and IBF world titles and he added he expects a tough fight, one that could replicate his bout with Wladimir Klitschko.
“For me it was just a good time, a good fight. Will we top that? Maybe. Let’s see if Usyk wants to go down that route,” Joshua added. “Let’s see if he can put me in some adversity and if I can put him in some adversity.
“As you saw with the Ruiz fight, even though it was a tough night I just kept getting up. I’ll always get up on my feet and try to fight. I’ll always give you entertaining nights.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments