Boxing icon Andre Ward has delivered a brutal assessment of Anthony Joshua's career, insisting the British heavyweight must make a drastic change to revive his championship ambitions.
The Olympic gold medallist turned analyst didn't mince words when discussing Joshua's recent performances, telling Seconds Out: "AJ needs to leave his current team if he wants to get back to the top."
The Trainer Dilemma
Ward's comments come after Joshua's third stint with trainer Ben Davison, who helped guide him to victories over Jermaine Franklin and Robert Helenius. While these wins rebuilt some momentum, Ward believes they merely paper over cracks in Joshua's game.
"He's working with Ben Davison now, but is that the right move long-term?" Ward questioned. "I'm not seeing the evolution needed to beat elite fighters like Tyson Fury or Oleksandr Usyk."
A Champion's Perspective
As one of boxing's most cerebral former champions, Ward understands what it takes to dominate at the highest level. The American retired undefeated in 2017 after unifying the light-heavyweight division.
His critique carries particular weight given Joshua's recent struggles against technical boxers. The Watford-born fighter has lost three of his last five bouts, all against skilled technicians - twice to Usyk and once to Andy Ruiz Jr.
What Next for AJ?
Joshua currently finds himself in boxing's no man's land - too dangerous for most contenders but not quite at the championship level. His next move could define the twilight years of his career.
Ward's solution is stark: "AJ needs to go back to the drawing board with a trainer who can rebuild him fundamentally. The physical tools are there, but the system isn't working."
With rumours swirling about potential super-fights against Deontay Wilder or Filip Hrgovic, Joshua's team decisions in coming months could make or break his legacy.
