Anthony Joshua isn’t going to return to the highest of heavyweight boxing any time quickly.
That’s in line with fellow British boxer Joe Joyce, who believes his former Staff GB teammate’s selection of opponent for his comeback struggle reveals how shortly he’s trying to regain his title.
It was introduced on Tuesday that Joshua will face American boxer Jermaine Franklin on the O2 Enviornment in London on 1 April.
It’ll be the two-time world champion’s first non-title struggle in additional than seven years.
AJ boxed at championship degree for 12 straight fights earlier than his run ended with Oleksandr Usyk taking his titles in 2021 and retaining them of their rematch in August 2022.
His subsequent opponent, Franklin, not too long ago misplaced to Dillian Whyte by majority choice however left some observers feeling he deserved victory.
However regardless of this, Joyce believes Joshua’s choice to face Franklin for his comeback struggle reveals he isn’t in a rush to get again to the very high of heavyweight boxing.
“It’s one thing he has to do,” the 37-year-old mentioned about AJ’s underwhelming return.
“I guess he wants to take the long route back. He who shall not be named.
“I went to the Olympics, I turned professional at 31 and I’ve had to get a move on.
“Me and my team have strategically made the right steps. I’ve boxed all over the world, on all the channels. To get to the top you have to plan out your route.
“I’ve delivered in all of my fights, I’m on a mission.”
Whilst Joshua prepares to face Franklin, Joyce is also set to fight in April, going up against fellow 6ft 6in Olympic silver medal winner Zilhei Zang on 15 April.
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Information Abstract:
- Joe Joyce says Anthony Joshua is ‘taking the lengthy route again’ amid option to face Jermaine Franklin in first fights since defeat to Oleksandr Usyk
- Examine all information and articles from the most recent Boxing updates.