Oleksandr Usyk v Anthony Joshua Rematch Lands a Date and Venue
After lengthy negotiations, it looks as if there is an official date for the rematch between unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk (19-0, 13 KOs) and Anthony “AJ” Joshua (24-2, 22 KOs). According to ESPN, the contest will take place on August 20 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
By the time this fight happens, it will have been eleven months since their first encounter on September 25, 2021. That night, “AJ” entered the ring as the reigning champ. However, Usyk used his jab and an array of boxing skills to build an early points lead.
Joshua staged a rally in the middle rounds. But Usyk took control in the championship rounds. He had Joshua reeling and wobbly at the final bell. The one-time cruiserweight champion’s effort was rewarded by the judges as he became the new champion by unanimous decision.
OVERLYING ISSUES
The fight had been pinned for July 23 in Saudi Arabia but was pushed back. This fight will take place in a specially built outdoor stadium. It wouldn’t be presumptuous to think that played a role as one of the reasons for the delay. Safety is critical, and all things must be dotted and crossed from a structural standpoint.
Then there were some surrounding and unresolved issues with Joshua. The two-time unified champ was in the middle of negotiations for a partnership deal with DAZN. He’s also working with a new lead trainer, Robert Garcia. Fighting in August as opposed to July could prove to be a blessing in disguise. Joshua and Garcia need as much time as possible to acclimate to one another and summon up a new strategy for victory.
Usyk enters this bout fighting for more than the retention of his world titles. His country of Ukraine is in an ongoing war with Russia. The champion returned home and joined the Kyiv Territorial Defense to fight alongside his countryman. As he prepares for the rematch, he has the plight of his people in his heart and spirit. As for fans, they will be delighted that the fight is finally happening. Stay tuned to 3Kings Boxing for any further developments.
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By: Michael Wilson Jr.
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