Anthony Joshua Focused on Dillian Whyte Rematch, Disregards Deontay Wilder

As the highly anticipated rematch between Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte approaches, Joshua dismisses Whyte as a rival and maintains his focus on the upcoming bout scheduled for August 12 in London.

Their previous encounter took place in December 2015, with Joshua securing a knockout victory in a fiercely contested match. During a recent press conference, Joshua aimed to alleviate the animosity that often surrounded their rivalry, stating, “I don’t really see Dillian as a rival. He’s just another opponent. Many people criticize me, but I don’t view Dillian as a rival. I focus on my own performance.”

Whyte, in a contrasting tone, responded by expressing his lack of animosity towards Joshua, turning the encounter into a friendly exchange before the rematch. This atmosphere marks a departure from the tension that enveloped their initial professional fight, where emotions ran high as Joshua sought redemption following his loss to Whyte in the amateur ranks six years prior.

In their previous clash, their teams had to intervene after a late blow from Whyte, and Joshua taunted his rival throughout the intense bout before eventually taking control. However, at the Hilton Syon Park Hotel in London, where both fighters arrived from their training camps in America, no such sparks flew between them.

The only minor point of contention arose when Whyte criticized promoter Eddie Hearn’s tactics during negotiations, further complicated by Joshua’s intention to face Deontay Wilder, an American boxer, in December in Saudi Arabia. Despite Hearn suggesting that a deal with Wilder would be arranged if Joshua emerged victorious, Joshua disregarded the possibility of fighting the former WBC champion. He stated, “Forget Wilder; those guys have been a nuisance for years, even with [Tyson] Fury. I don’t waste my time waiting for others. Dillian is a formidable and credible opponent.”

Regarding the upcoming bout with Joshua, Whyte expressed his focus on preparing to face the best version of his opponent. “I possess the power to take out anyone. My focus is on securing the victory. If a knockout comes, it comes. I’m relentless and always ready to strike,” Whyte declared.

Analysis – A Fierce Rivalry Enters its Third Chapter

Joshua delivered a knockout blow to Whyte in the seventh round of their 2015 encounter.

Their history dates back 14 years when Joshua and Whyte first faced each other, and their familiarity extends even further. In their amateur fight in 2009, Whyte achieved a significant upset victory, despite both being relative newcomers to the sport.

In the professional ranks, Joshua avenged his loss, triumphing over Whyte in their 2015 British heavyweight title fight with a ferocious knockout. Now, almost eight years later, the boxing world awaits their third showdown.

Both inside and outside the ring, these two fighters have clashed before. However, there seems to be an underlying mutual respect for the achievements each has attained.

Their previous fight marked a pivotal moment for both men. The winner would be catapulted toward world honors, as Joshua went on to fight for the IBF heavyweight title in his subsequent bout.

Meanwhile, the loser would face the task of rebuilding their reputation as an elite fighter. Whyte managed to accomplish that feat, but he will undoubtedly contemplate what might have been had he emerged victorious over Joshua in their previous encounter.

Fast forward to the present, and these rivals find themselves at another crossroads in their careers. Joshua has a long-awaited showdown with Deontay Wilder potentially awaiting him if he secures victory, while another loss could have dire consequences for his career.

Similarly, Whyte could face challenges in rebuilding his reputation if he suffers another defeat. However, a win would breathe new life into a career that has repeatedly defied the odds.

Once again, Whyte and Joshua stand on the precipice of a critical chapter in their boxing journeys, ready to face each other in the ring, toe to toe.

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More about boxing rematch

• Anthony Joshua vs. Dillian Whyte II: Rematch Details
• Recap of Joshua vs. Whyte’s Previous Fight
• Anthony Joshua’s Perspective on Dillian Whyte as a Rival
• Dillian Whyte’s Response to Anthony Joshua’s Remarks
• Deontay Wilder’s Potential Fight with Anthony Joshua
• Importance of the Rematch for Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte
• Overview of the History and Rivalry between Joshua and Whyte