Anthony Joshua disclosed that Oleksandr Usyk’s team encouraged him to “show greatness” while the two heavyweights trained together before his comeback bout.
He trained side‑by‑side with his former rival while preparing for his upcoming clash with Kristian Prenga in Saudi Arabia this Saturday.
Joshua is eyeing a potential showdown with Tyson Fury should he defeat Prenga this weekend
The 36‑year‑old two‑time world heavyweight champion said Usyk’s camp urged him to elevate his standards further in anticipation of a possible British showdown with Tyson Fury later this year.
“It’s an elite squad. I got to observe how he prepared for Rico Verhoeven, whom Usyk defeated in May,” Joshua told Sky Sports.
“But ultimately, the responsibility rests with Usyk and with me to put in the work. The team has provided everything we need; now it’s up to us to deliver.”
Joshua and Usyk met twice, in 2021 and 2022
“I’m already capable and strong; I can absorb and dish out punishment, so I sometimes get by with just enough effort and still remain effective.”
“But these coaches insist, ‘no.’ They demand more, urging me to bring out my best.”
“Let’s draw out the talent you possess and work on it together. My training approach has definitely improved a lot.”
Joshua acknowledged, however, that training and fighting are distinct challenges.
Joshua explained that Usyk’s camp has been motivating him to showcase his greatness
“Sometimes in a fight you don’t have the luxury to make improvements; you’re in a moment that puts immense pressure on your shoulders. You should be performing at this level routinely. As Usyk’s team said, greatness ought to be a daily habit in the gym, not something you summon only on fight night. It’s a do‑or‑die moment where you display greatness, and you should be able to do it from the opening round.”
Joshua Aims to Unleash His Ruthless Edge
Usyk has previously backed Joshua to defeat Tyson Fury
Over his career, Joshua has won 29 of his 33 professional bouts, with 26 of those victories coming by knockout.
He insists he can still unleash that raw aggression and will do so if the moment arises this weekend against Prenga.
“That’s the name of the game. There’s no overtime,” he said.
“If I can finish it, trust me, I will. But I know what my mind is telling me and what I need to do. However long it takes me, I’ll be content as long as I secure the victory.”
