Anthony Joshua (26-3, 23 KOs) scored a brutal seventh-round stoppage victory over Robert Helenius (32-5, 21 KOs) at London‘s 02 Enviornment on August 12. Many who predicted AJ would want an early assertion stoppage win had been left disillusioned as AJ struggled to shut the space in opposition to Helenius, who used his jab effectively. Joshua used his jab successfully however couldn’t shut the hole shortly sufficient to land many efficient follow-ups.
The Seventh Spherical started with each fighters making an attempt to set traps for his or her opponent earlier than AJ landed a concussive proper hand to finish the combat in an emphatic vogue. After the victory, consideration turned to what’s subsequent for AJ.
Three Potential Opponents for Anthony Joshua
All paths result in @anthonyjoshua vs @BronzeBomber 🔥 #JoshuaHelenius pic.twitter.com/UrTW0yJlzd
— Matchroom Boxing (@MatchroomBoxing) August 13, 2023
Anthony Joshua vs. Deontay Wilder
Joshua in opposition to Deontay Wilder (43-2-1, 42 KOs), appears the most definitely subsequent opponent for AJ, with Eddie Hearn saying straight after the combat. “It’s on to Deontay Wilder in January. Prince Khalid and Abilities Problem are right here tonight. We hope to shut that deal within the subsequent couple of days.” There isn’t any doubt a combat between Wilder and the Brit could be a field workplace smash, with each nonetheless eager to achieve the summit of the heavyweight division.
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Wilder possesses explosive energy, as confirmed by pulling down Tyson Fury throughout their epic trilogy. AJs profession has stalled considerably following the defeats to Oleksandr Usyk, and regardless of the sluggish begin in opposition to Helenius, Joshua will probably be inspired by his devasting knockout of the Finnish fighter. A combat between Wilder and Joshua could be explosive for nevertheless lengthy it lasts.
Hear Dan Rafael discussing Joshua’s future with T.J. Rives on the latest “Combat Freaks Unite Recap” podcast by clicking play beneath,
Tyson Fury
Tyson Fury (33-0-1, 24 KOs) in opposition to Joshua has arguably been the competition we have now all craved for the previous couple of years. It will be a travesty if we don’t see this combat made. There isn’t any love misplaced between these two, which might make the build-up one of the crucial entertaining ever. It feels Joshua wants some extra time with new coach Derrick James earlier than he takes on “The Gypsy King.” Fury would undoubtedly begin because the favorite, together with his superior footwork and boxing capability.
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With extra time underneath the tutelage of James, we’d seemingly see AJ trigger Fury some issues. If Joshua beats Wilder, absolutely the Fury combat has to occur.
The Winner of Zhilei Zhang vs. Joe Joyce
Zhilei Zhang defeated Joe Joyce of their first encounter, which noticed Joyce instantly implement the rematch. Their second contest is about to happen on Saturday, September 23. Zhang (25-1-1) couldn’t miss together with his straight left. It was correct and stable all through, ultimately resulting in the stoppage of Joyce (15-1). Whoever wins the rematch could be a viable opponent for Joshua if a combat can’t be made with Wilder or Fury. Each Joyce and Zhang would seemingly give Joshua lots to consider.