Joshua: I breathe life into this heavyweight division

ANTHONY JOSHUA says it will be a “dream come true” to get back to the top of the heavyweight division.

The 33-year-old heavyweight is in Dallas preparing for his rematch with old rival Dillian Whyte. A win for Joshua on August 26 at the O2 Arena, London, could see him just months away from a fight against divisional wrecking ball Deontay Wilder. Negotiations have been ongoing with both teams looking to secure a date later this year or early next in the Middle East.

Joshua got back to winning ways in April against Jermaine Franklin after two consecutive losses to Oleksandr Usyk. ‘AJ’ , however, was critical of his performance which you can hear more about in a recent episode of the Boxing News podcast.

Now under the tutelage of Derrick James, who also trains Errol Spence Jr, Ryan Garcia and Frank Martin, Joshua is looking to build on his success of the past by becoming a better fighter all-round.

Joshua’s YouTube channel produced a six-minute insight into camp life and his new coach spoke highly of the heavyweight’s desire to get better.

“Everyone says they want to be a world champ, but people are not willing to do what it takes to become a world champ,” James said.

“Even in this gym you’re put through the test because it’s one thing saying you’re gonna hang out with champs and hang out with other fighters. It’s another thing to be able to endure the work out and do the work so it’s a big thing.

“He’ll push himself. He’s asking me what can I do more, how can I be better, how can I improve my fitness more and that’s the sign of a great individual and a great champion. Someone who wants to do better and he’s working, he’s doing it in 100-degree heat.”

Joshua is regarded as the third or fourth best heavyweight in the world depending on who you talk to. At one time the Londoner was regarded as the top dog defeating all who stood before him prior to slipping up against Andy Ruiz and then finding Usyk too good. Joshua is eager to get back to where he once was.

“Wish I was still champion because I breathe life into this division. I bring excitement for sure. When I’m on top I take on all challenges and once I’m there it’s gonna be a dream come true.”