Anthony Joshua reflects on training with Oleksandr Usyk ahead of comeback fight
Anthony Joshua has lifted the lid on an eye-opening training camp with Oleksandr Usyk, revealing the Ukrainian’s team challenged him to reach a level of consistency they believe separates the very best from everyone else, reports BritPanorama.
The former two-time heavyweight world champion has been preparing for Saturday night’s comeback fight against Kristian Prenga in Saudi Arabia. Part of his camp included working alongside Usyk, who defeated him twice in world title fights.
Rather than focusing on technique alone, Joshua notes the most significant lesson came from Usyk’s coaches, who consistently pushed him to deliver elite standards each day rather than saving it for fight night. This approach aims to make greatness a routine rather than an exceptional event.
With a colossal showdown against Tyson Fury anticipated later this year, contingent on both heavyweights winning their next bouts, Joshua asserts that his experience with Usyk’s team has already altered his training methodology. “It’s an elite team. I got to see how he prepared for Rico Verhoeven,” Joshua told Sky Sports. “But ultimately, it’s all down to Usyk, and it’s all down to me to do the work. The team has given us everything we need; now it’s just down to us to do the work.”
He acknowledged that his natural athleticism has often allowed him to perform successfully without maximizing his training potential. However, Usyk’s team has insisted he must strive for more. “These guys are like, ‘nah’. They want to see more,” Joshua explained. His approach to training has indeed improved significantly, as he aims to make elite performances a regular occurrence.
In this context, Joshua emphasized the importance of consistent excellence: “Sometimes in a fight, you don’t have that luxury to make improvements.” He believes that performing at a high level should be normal, rather than something reserved for critical moments. “Your greatness should just be something that you do every day in the gym,” he asserted.
As he heads into the Prenga fight, Joshua seeks to bounce back from his defeat to Daniel Dubois in September 2024. A victory is not just about reclaiming his winning streak; it also positions him for a much-anticipated Battle of Britain against Fury, should he prevail and Fury emerge victorious against Mariusz Wach.
Joshua, who boasts a record of 29 wins from 33 professional bouts, including 26 knockouts, has made it clear he is prepared to finish the fight quickly if the opportunity arises. “That’s the name of the game. There’s no overtime,” he affirmed, indicating a focus on efficiency and effectiveness in the ring.
With a blend of resolve and determination, Joshua’s upcoming bout is set against a backdrop of high expectations and significant stakes, marking a pivotal moment in his career.
