Anthony Joshua Claims “Stepping Aside” is Still an Option
The one question burning throughout the boxing community is “will Anthony ‘AJ’ Joshua (24-2, 22ko) forgo the rematch clause and allow the undisputed fight to take place between WBC champion Tyson “Gypsy King” Fury and unified champion Oleksandr Usyk?”
Joshua lost all the belts after being completely outboxed by Usyk on September 25. The former champion is eager to get the titles back and he doesn’t seem to want to step aside. However, he doesn’t seem to want to rule it out either if it is good business.
STEP ASIDE OR NOT STEP ASIDE? THAT IS THE QUESTION
In an interview with iFL TV, AJ made it clear people from his team know better than to talk to him about it.
“I think people know not to approach me with that rubbish. It may have come to my team, but I think they all know not to bring that to me at this minute.”
Nonetheless, he softened his position when looking at it from a business perspective.
“In terms of step aside, I don’t know if that goes in line with what I morally stand for. But let me be real with you, I want to be known as one of the smartest businessmen as well. If the money is right we have to look at it. You know what I am trying to say?
“We have to look at it. But, respect to me has a lot more value than money.”
Joshua explained in deep detail that stepping aside could effect his decision.
“That step aside thing it may not go with what I stand for in terms of does it bring me the respect [and] it doesn’t go with me fighting the best at that time in my career. I may fight them next. But, it may make sense for the business.”
CAN STILL FIGHT THE BEST
Joshua’s concern about fighting the best should not be much of a problem. Fury has made it clear that after Usyk the former champ would be next.
“I want to fight Usyk next, for all the belts, and that’s it really. Then he [Joshua] can fight the winner. That’s it, and I am done!”
Tyson Fury – WBC Heavyweight Champion
RELATED: Tyson Fury: “I Want to Fight Usyk Then Joshua!”
It will be interesting to see what the response will be from Top Rank head honcho Bob Arum. This author would not be surprised if he isn’t on the phone right now with Eddie Hearn (Joshua’s promoter) ready to send over a fat check so they can proceed with making Fury vs Usyk.
All fans can do is wait and see how this will play out.
Reading Time: 3 minutes
By: Garrisson Bland
Be the first to comment