Anthony Joshua has rubbished any suggestion that he could step aside from the rematch with Oleksandr Usyk in exchange for a lump sum of cash.
Joshua was comprehensively beaten by Usyk when the pair first met in the ring back in September. The sheer gulf in class left boxing fans wondering if AJ would ever reign as heavyweight champion of the world again.
As speculation began to intensify suggesting that Joshua could accept a sum of cash in exchange for foregoing the rematch and allowing Usyk to fight Tyson Fury, AJ fans’ anxiety worsened, and understandably so.
However, Joshua has delivered some good news for those hoping to see him fight Usyk, avenge his defeat and regain his lost belts, with the Briton having insisted he WILL fight him again and he WILL beat him.
Joshua is quoted by Stuff saying: “I’ve come up short twice, but the majority of times I have overcome many obstacles.”
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“Next fight I’m going to beat him (Usyk) and I’m going to take those belts from him.”
“And I’m going to reign again to become three-time heavyweight champion of the world – whether people like it or not.”
In the midst of all the hyperbole relating to the manner in which Joshua was dethroned, many have forgotten just how good a fighter he is and just how explosive his speed and power are, even for a heavyweight.
He has a fighting chance of beating Usyk, assuming he doesn’t attempt to outbox him again and takes full advantage of his physical advantages over the cruiserweight. Time will tell if he’s successful in doing that.