Eddie Hearn Expresses Astonishment at Joshua's Intensive Training with Usyk
Eddie Hearn, the promoter of British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua, has openly admitted his shock at the "unbelievable lift" Joshua has received from training with Oleksandr Usyk in Ukraine. This development comes just a few months after Joshua survived a tragic car crash in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his teammates, casting doubt on his fighting future.
From Rivals to Training Partners: A Surprising Bond
Last month, Joshua began an intensive training camp with Usyk in the Ukrainian champion's home country. This partnership is particularly intriguing given their competitive history, with Usyk outpointing Joshua in two world-title fights—dethroning AJ in 2021 and retaining the unified belts in their 2022 rematch. According to Hearn, who spoke to The Independent and other outlets on Tuesday, this joint training has provided Joshua with a remarkable boost in morale and performance.
Hearn described witnessing Joshua's grueling routines firsthand: "When I was there, he'd be doing these circuits, like tempo sprints. Most people do those sprints alone, but he would do his sprints, then go over and do a kettle-bell circuit, then sledge work—with a massive fitness trainer standing on the sledge. Then he'd return to the sprints. I'm like: 'What the f***?'"
Usyk's Motivational Role and Future Fight Plans
Hearn highlighted Usyk's motivational impact, noting instances where Usyk pushed Joshua during high-intensity sessions. "You've got the pound-for-pound No. 1 and the guy he beat twice—who's probably the biggest star in the sport—and it's incredible," Hearn said. He expressed strong confidence that this training will enhance Joshua's chances in upcoming bouts, particularly against Tyson Fury.
Negotiations are ongoing between Joshua and Fury, another former heavyweight champion. Fury recently ended his fifth retirement to outpoint Arslanbek Makhmudov at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with Joshua watching from ringside. Although Joshua declined Fury's invitation to enter the ring, he indicated a future fight is likely. Hearn suggested Joshua will probably face another opponent before meeting Fury and is expected to continue training with Usyk for both fights.
Usyk's Prediction and Joshua's Renewed Focus
Oleksandr Usyk, who also holds two decision wins over Fury, shared his perspective with The Independent. He predicted Joshua would defeat Fury, citing Joshua's machine-like training regimen. "I know he wins, but I don't know how," Usyk said. He commented on Fury's recent performance, noting it wasn't impressive but acknowledged the win.
Hearn emphasized the positive effect of this training on Joshua's mindset. "I think when he's there and he's focused and he's got that purpose, it's really good for him," Hearn stated. He reflected on Joshua's resilience after the accident, praising his quick return to the gym and subsequent commitment to training with Usyk.
This unexpected friendship and collaboration between Joshua and Usyk is seen as a refreshing development in boxing, blending competition with camaraderie to drive athletic excellence.
