Former two-time world champion Anthony Joshua is taking an unconventional approach to his boxing comeback, enlisting the help of Oleksandr Usyk's training team to prepare for his 'colossal' eight-round bout against YouTube sensation Jake Paul.
A Strategic Training Shift
The 36-year-old British heavyweight, who hasn't fought since his devastating knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September last year, confirmed the significant training change during a press conference in the United States. Joshua revealed he's parted ways with his regular trainer Ben Davison, who publicly criticised the upcoming fight as "not good for boxing."
Joshua explained his decision, stating: "I was invited to train with Team Usyk. He's one of the best in the world, and it's not all down to him. It's also down to the team that's around him." The British boxer, who suffered two consecutive points defeats to Usyk in 2021 and 2022, described the experience as "challenging" but valuable for gaining insight into the Ukrainian champion's successful methods.
Weight Stipulations and Fight Details
The highly anticipated match is scheduled for December 19 in Miami, with Joshua contractually obligated not to weigh more than 245 pounds. Despite this restriction, he's still expected to outweigh his opponent by over two stones, creating a significant physical advantage.
Joshua brushed off criticism surrounding the contest, emphasising his focus on supporters rather than detractors. "I don't address people that are against me," he declared. "Why am I worried about negative comments? I just focus on the people who believe in me and support me."
The former champion acknowledged Paul's initiative in making the fight happen, calling it a "great opportunity" that combines "marketability with ability." After planning a twelve-month break from boxing, Joshua decided this massive event was the perfect way to return to the ring.
Paul's Confidence and Respectful Rivalry
Jake Paul, whose 13-fight professional career has primarily featured bouts against former UFC stars and ageing boxing legends, expressed respect for Joshua's accomplishments while maintaining confidence in his ability to cause an upset.
Paul's only previous heavyweight experience came twelve months ago with a points victory over 58-year-old Mike Tyson. In his most recent fight this June, he outpointed 39-year-old former middleweight champion Julio Cesar Chavez.
"He's one of the best heavyweights ever," Paul acknowledged of Joshua, before outlining his strategy. "I believe that fighting a small man is often harder as a heavyweight because of the speed difference and the angles."
The social media star turned boxer believes avoiding Joshua's power punches for eight rounds is key to victory. In a dramatic declaration of commitment, Paul stated: "I want him to cut me up, I want him to break my face, but guess what? He's going to have to kill me to stop me, and I'm seriously ready to die."
The press conference maintained a largely respectful tone, with both fighters recognising the significance of what Paul described as a "collision" between boxing's traditional world and the new era of social media-driven combat sports.
