Anthony Joshua Versus Deontay Wilder Still has Luster to Sell!
With his rematch with unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk complete, Anthony “AJ” Joshua (24-3, 22 KO’s) has officially been dealt his third professional loss. Of course this is a sour and unfavorable outcome, yet it is not the end the world. AJ has already indicated that he would like to fight again before the end of the year. He also stated that he is open to all comers.
With his sustained name value, and the relatively little damage that he took, Joshua should be able to grab a quick comeback duel in the next few months. He’d likely be able to easily lure fighters such as Otto Wallin, Luis Ortiz or even Zhilei Zhang, who fought on the same card, into the ring. All have recognizable names that would make respectable opposition.
Although, one would imagine that Joshua would return against a soft touch so that he can start rebuilding his confidence. If true, his first real test would not take place until at least his first bout next year. One such fight that would certainly perk the interest of the people is one pitting Joshua against former heavyweight champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder (42-2-1, 41 KO’s).
LET’S FINISH IT
Wilder and Joshua have a long and intertwining history that goes back several years, back to when they both were still undefeated. At one time, they represented the biggest match to be made in the division. In the end however, it appeared that Team Joshua wanted no smoke with The Bronze Bomber. They would even go on to famously turn down an $80 million deal without even seriously looking into it. Now that AJ still wound up with three losses on his record, he probably really wished he fought for that $80 million!
While the price tag has dropped considerably, Wilder versus Joshua is still a very sellable fight in two nations. After suffering his own back-to-back beatings at the hands of Tyson Fury, Wilder is just now returning to the sport. On October 15, he will shake off some rust against Robert Helenius. Provided that he is successful, settling this old grudge with Joshua early in 2023 could be just what the doctor ordered.
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By: Bakari Simpson
