Anthony Joshua Finds Renewed Focus in Spanish Training Camp with Oleksandr Usyk
British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua has embarked on a remarkable training partnership with his former rival, Oleksandr Usyk, in a move that promoter Eddie Hearn believes is providing an "unbelievable lift" to the Olympic champion. The two fighters, once enemies in the ring, are now allies in the gym, spending several weeks together at a camp in Valencia, Spain.
From Foes to Training Partners: A Transformative Alliance
This collaboration marks a significant shift in their relationship. Usyk, the current WBC, WBA, and IBF world champion, defeated Joshua twice in high-profile bouts during 2021 and 2022. Despite those competitive battles, the Ukrainian great has now joined forces with Joshua, emphasising a philosophy of mutual support. "If we don't help each other, we are not people, we are animals," Usyk declared, highlighting the camaraderie driving their training sessions.
Joshua returned to the Spanish camp after attending Tyson Fury's points victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov at Tottenham Court Stadium on Saturday, where he watched from ringside. His presence there underscores the looming prospect of a historic showdown with Fury, potentially scheduled for November at Wembley Stadium.
Eddie Hearn's Insights on Joshua's Revival
Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn has been vocal about the positive impact of this partnership on Joshua's mindset and preparation. "It just gives him an unbelievable lift. At the moment he's very happy," Hearn stated. He observed a training session firsthand, noting the intense dynamic between the two fighters. "There were times when AJ was all out on his heart rate and Usyk was going 'come on champ – push, push, push'. I'm watching thinking this is unbelievable what I'm seeing," Hearn recounted.
Hearn emphasised that this environment is precisely what Joshua needs as he works to return to full-time training. "He's worked so hard to get himself physically ready to try and go back to full-time camp. It's really good for him. When he's there and he's focused, he's got that purpose," he explained. The promoter also addressed Joshua's future in the sport, noting, "Sometimes AJ talks like he's got another three or five years left in the sport, but you can get beat and everything changes. He'll certainly be there for these two fights this year."
Overcoming Adversity and Looking Ahead
Joshua's return to training follows a challenging period. In November, he was involved in a car crash in Nigeria that resulted in the tragic deaths of two close friends. Joshua sustained injuries in the accident and is expected to receive medical clearance to resume full training within the next fortnight. His first appearance back in the ring is likely to be a warm-up fight in July, serving as preparation for the potential blockbuster bout with Fury.
Negotiations for what could be the biggest fight in British boxing history are ongoing, with both camps optimistic about an autumn date. Joshua is already meticulously preparing for Fury, having filmed the entire Makhmudov fight on his phone from a unique angle. "He's been sending me some clips and he'll watch it over and over and over again," Hearn revealed, indicating Joshua's strategic approach to analysing his future opponent.
The Road to a Historic Showdown
The anticipation for a Joshua-Fury clash is building, with Hearn predicting an electrifying build-up and fight. "The build up to the Fury fight will be incredible but the fight will be incredible as well. I'm sure it means a lot to Fury, but I know what it means to AJ. He'll give everything in camp for that fight," he affirmed. This training partnership with Usyk not only revitalises Joshua but also adds a compelling narrative to his journey back to the top of the heavyweight division.
