Get ready for an electrifying bout as Joshua promises a knockout against Wallin. The ‘Day of Reckoning’ event, featuring Joshua vs Wallin and Wilder vs Parker, is set to take place at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh on Saturday, 23 December. Tune in for live commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live, and follow the action on the Sport News Center website and app starting from 21:00 GMT.
“After my setbacks, I’ve climbed back aboard the success train.”
Eighteen months ago, Anthony Joshua, in the wake of two back-to-back losses to Oleksandr Usyk, confronted a sea of reporters in Saudi Arabia, struggling to hold back tears. The defeat marked a low point for the British Olympic champion of 2012, igniting doubts about his future in the ring.
Critics were quick to question his prowess, suggesting his best days were behind him, only a few years into his professional career. Rumors swirled about his mental resilience, with some prematurely advising retirement for the two-time world champion.
“Facing a fall from grace is one thing, but standing up and finding your way again is another,” Joshua confides to Sport News Center.
But Joshua, now 34, claims he’s redirected his path. Following a sabbatical for the rest of 2022, he returned with a win over Jermaine Franklin and then, four months later, knocked out Robert Helenius.
“Self-reflection led me back,” Joshua reveals. “My purpose? I’m driven to compete, to fight.”
Joshua’s tension is palpable as he prepares to face Otto Wallin in Riyadh. Victory here is crucial for his resurgence, potentially setting up a showdown with Deontay Wilder or a chance at a vacant world title.
A defeat to Wallin, though, would derail these aspirations, despite a rematch clause in the contract. Even his staunchest supporters would find it hard to defend him then.
Has Joshua’s comeback been effective?
Judging superficially, his victories over Franklin and Helenius might not seem remarkable. Yet, there are silver linings, including valuable ring time.
In 2023, Joshua has lived up to his promise of fighting thrice, a feat not seen since 2016 for a top-tier heavyweight.
“My focus is solely on boxing now, everything else takes a backseat,” he declares.
Post-defeats, Joshua’s cautious approach against Franklin is understandable. The match against the taller Helenius saw a shift, with Joshua eventually unleashing his power for a first knockout win in nearly three years.
“Three victories in a year is a significant achievement,” promoter Eddie Hearn points out. “He’ll end the year on a high note.”
AJ’s Shift in Attitude
A noticeable change in Joshua’s demeanor is evident. He seems more driven, even slightly irritable.
Wallin has labeled Joshua as mentally vulnerable since his 2019 upset by Andy Ruiz Jr. “He fears another knockout loss,” Wallin suggests.
At a recent press conference, Joshua acknowledged his eagerness to excel, having had verbal confrontations with opponents like Franklin, Helenius, and Wallin. He even sparred words with Jarrell Miller in Saudi.
“I’m still the boss here,” Joshua retorted to Miller.
The champion also reportedly spent £2,000 on a four-day darkness retreat, seeking solitude for introspection. Whether this new approach aids his quest for a third world title remains to be seen.
New Coach Davison: A Perfect Pairing with Joshua
Joshua has teamed up with British trainer Ben Davison for this fight.
After parting ways with Robert McCracken and working briefly with Robert Garcia and Derrick James, Joshua has now turned to Davison. Critics may see this as a desperate move, but Joshua believes it’s a strategic choice for his career.
Leigh Wood, Joshua’s stablemate and a world champion under Davison, sees the pair as a perfect match. “Joshua’s power is terrifying, and with Ben, he can harness it fully,” Wood observes.
Wood credits Davison’s dedication to boxing and believes in his positive influence on Joshua.
Has Joshua overcome past errors?
Wilder doubts Joshua’s resolve for a match with him.
Despite speculation about a match with Wilder on 9 March, Joshua’s current focus is solely on the championship. Wallin, however, is no easy opponent, having almost upset Tyson Fury in 2019.
Joshua’s previous loss to Ruiz Jr was partly due to distractions, something he can’t afford to repeat.
“I channel the pressure into motivation,” Joshua states. “I’m a different man now, possibly even better.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Anthony Joshua Comeback
When is the Anthony Joshua vs Otto Wallin fight?
The fight is scheduled for Saturday, 23 December, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh.
What coverage is available for the Joshua vs Wallin fight?
BBC Radio 5 Live will provide live radio commentary. Additionally, live text coverage and reactions will be available on the Sport News Center website and app from 21:00 GMT.
Has Anthony Joshua changed trainers for the Wallin fight?
Yes, Joshua has enlisted British trainer Ben Davison for this fight due to Derrick James being unavailable.
What is at stake for Anthony Joshua in the fight against Wallin?
A victory over Wallin is crucial for Joshua’s comeback, potentially setting up a future bout with Deontay Wilder or a shot at a vacant world title.
What approach has Joshua taken to prepare mentally for the fight?
Joshua has reportedly spent £2,000 on a darkness retreat, seeking four days of solitude in a blacked-out room to focus and reflect.
What were the results of Joshua’s previous fights in 2023?
Joshua won against Jermaine Franklin and Robert Helenius, marking a comeback after his defeats to Oleksandr Usyk.
More about Anthony Joshua Comeback
- Anthony Joshua vs Oleksandr Usyk: A look back at their previous fights
- BBC Sport: Anthony Joshua to fight Otto Wallin in Saudi Arabia
- Sport News Center website
- Ben Davison’s influence on Anthony Joshua
- Anthony Joshua’s darkness retreat
- Otto Wallin’s performance against Tyson Fury
4 comments
joshua’s coach change good move, ben’s da man!
can’t wait 4 da fight, joshua got dis!
bbc got da coverage, gonna be epic!
Wow, joshua trainin hard, ready 2 win!