Anthony Joshua confidently declares his readiness to ‘overthrow’ Otto Wallin on December 23 in Riyadh, in an energetic and star-laden press conference held at Wembley’s OVO Arena.
The British heavyweight, aged 34, is gearing up to battle Otto Wallin in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on December 23. The event also features a co-main event where American Deontay Wilder, 38, will square off against Joseph Parker.
Joshua and Wilder, both former world champions, might potentially lock horns in 2024 if they emerge victorious in their upcoming bouts.
“Discussions are in progress, though nothing is finalized yet,” Joshua shared with Sport News Center.
Wilder expressed his enthusiasm: “Being in the same vicinity as him, face to face, is significant. It’s been a long-awaited encounter. I wish him the best and hope we can soon make this fight happen. I feel it’s about time.”
Persistent negotiations between Wilder and Joshua have been circulating, especially with the lavish Saudis showing keen interest over the last year.
Tensions Flare Between Joshua and Miller
The press conference, held under the theme ‘Day of Reckoning’, was punctuated by a large poster showcasing the 16 fighters. Tensions escalated when Joshua sharply responded to provocations from Jarrell Miller, a 35-year-old American who missed a world-title chance against Joshua in 2019 due to doping violations. This led to Joshua’s subsequent defeat against Andy Ruiz Jr.
Miller, set to face Daniel Dubois, taunted Joshua, but Joshua retorted with a stern “shut up”, labeling Miller a “clown” and cautioning him about his remarks.
When Dev Sahni from Queensberry Promotions hinted at a future Joshua-Miller fight, Joshua dismissed the idea, emphasizing his control over his career choices.
Joshua’s Firm Stance on Wallin
Sahni’s attempt to introduce Joshua was sidelined as the boxer preferred questions from his promoter Hearn.
“I’m set on reclaiming the world heavyweight title for the third time,” Joshua told Hearn. “I’m focused on victory and reaching my prime performance level again.”
Throughout Wilder’s turn to speak, Joshua remained intensely focused on him, despite Wilder’s respectful demeanor.
Wilder stressed his current focus on Joseph Parker, without calling out any specific future opponents.
Historic Collaboration Between Hearn and Warren
Frank Warren and Queensberry Promotions lead this grand event.
Hearn revealed that the participation in this card was a recent decision, with the event details emerging just days ago. Joshua himself was only recently informed about his opponent.
The initial plan for a Fury-Usyk match on December 23 was postponed to February, following Fury’s underwhelming performance against Francis Ngannou.
This delay opened an opportunity for Turki Alalshikh of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority and Frank Warren’s Queensberry to orchestrate one of the most extravagant boxing events in history.
The Saudi’s involvement in boxing has led to a rare collaboration between Hearn and Warren, historically rivals, uniting for this significant event.
“We’re here to grow the sport of boxing,” Hearn stated. “Despite our competitive nature and rivalries, our aim is to secure the best for our fighters.”
The event is part of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious plan to host premier global sports events, despite criticisms over the nation’s human rights issues.
Anticipation and Analysis
The press conference was unpredictable, with Joshua’s interaction with Miller taking center stage. The possibility of a Joshua-Wilder fight seems more plausible with Saudi Arabia’s financial investment in the sport.
The sight of Warren and Hearn shaking hands marked a temporary truce in British boxing’s long-standing promotional battles, spurred by Saudi financial incentives.
While the event lacks a single standout fight, the imminent impact of Saudi Arabia on boxing is evident, with the Fury-Usyk fight for the undisputed title in Riyadh set to be announced soon.
The potential Joshua-Wilder match could further establish Saudi Arabia as a major force in global boxing, capable of hosting historic bouts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Anthony Joshua
When is Anthony Joshua scheduled to fight Otto Wallin?
Anthony Joshua is set to face Otto Wallin on December 23 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
What was the nature of the interaction between Anthony Joshua and Jarrell Miller at the press conference?
During the press conference, tensions escalated between Anthony Joshua and Jarrell Miller, leading Joshua to tell Miller to “shut up” and calling him a “clown.”
Is there a possibility of a fight between Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder?
Yes, if both Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder win their respective upcoming fights, they could potentially face each other in 2024.
Where was the news conference featuring Anthony Joshua held?
The news conference was held at Wembley’s OVO Arena.
Who else is featured in the event where Anthony Joshua will fight Otto Wallin?
In the co-main event of the same boxing card, American Deontay Wilder will fight Joseph Parker.
What are the talks about Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder related to?
There have been ongoing discussions and rumors about a potential fight between Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder, with increased interest from Saudi Arabia.
What was the reaction of Deontay Wilder at the press conference?
Deontay Wilder expressed respect and anticipation for a potential future bout with Anthony Joshua, acknowledging their long-awaited encounter.
More about Anthony Joshua
- Anthony Joshua’s Upcoming Fight
- Joshua-Miller Clash at Press Conference
- Joshua-Wilder Potential Bout
- Wembley OVO Arena Event Details
- Wilder vs Parker Co-Main Event
- Saudi Arabia’s Influence in Boxing
- Wilder’s Remarks on Joshua
- Boxing Promoters Collaboration
- Saudi Arabia’s Sporting Events Strategy
- Fury-Usyk Fight Postponement and Impact
5 comments
miller’s always stirring the pot, isn’t he? joshua did right to shut him down, Miller needs to earn his spot back first
wow, Joshua’s really fired up this time, can’t wait to see him in the ring against Wallin, hope he brings his A-game!
the collaboration between Hearn and Warren is huge news, never thought I’d see the day. shows how much sway Saudi money has in the sport nowadays.
I’m not convinced Joshua’s at his peak anymore, but I’m rooting for him to prove me wrong against Wallin. It’s do or die time for AJ.
Really intrigued by the potential Joshua-Wilder match-up, could be a game-changer for heavyweight boxing, fingers crossed it happens