Anthony Joshua Ready to Fight Deontay Wilder Any Time
Two-time unified heavyweight champion Anthony “AJ” Joshua (26-3, 23 KOs) took care of business as he scored a seventh-round knockout over late replacement opponent Robert Helenius on August 12 at the O2 Arena in London, England. Next up for Joshua is likely a showdown with former WBC champion Deontay Wilder (42-2-1, 41 KOs).
BRING ON WILDER
Joshua was his usual calm and composed self during the post-fight news conference. When asked at this stage of his career whether it’s the right time to fight Wilder, Joshua said he’s ready for the fight, if and when it happens.
“Any time is a good time to fight. . . It could have been Wilder eight years ago or Wilder now, don’t matter. It is what it is at the end of the day. It’s only a fight, and boxing wins.
So, roll on, really. There’s no worry to me when it is. I’m just happy we can get the fight going, and I think people appreciate that . . . I’m doing my best to keep heavyweight boxing on the map.”
A LONG TIME COMING
Fans have wanted to see them battle each other for several years. Back when both men were world champions, it would have arguably been the biggest fight in the sport. But the two parties could never agree to a deal at the negotiating table. Then there were setbacks in the ring as both Joshua and Wilder lost their world titles.
However, the two ex-champions are still considered superstars with big drawing power. As a result, Joshua-Wilder is a contest that carries a significant amount of clout and is a big-money event. Each has explosive punching power and is capable of ending matters with one punch.
There’s been talk of the two fighting in the Middle East since the spring of this year. Joshua was joined at his post-fight press conference by his promoter, Eddie Hearn. The Chairman of Matchroom Promotions said he and his team are meeting with officials from Saudi Arabia. It is their hope they can finalize a deal and make the fight in January 2024 in Saudi Arabia.
