Anthony Joshua sees advantages of giving up a world title belt as it would ‘create more history and entertainment’
ANTHONY JOSHUA may have to give up one of his world title belts – but he’s happy to do so as it would “create more history and entertainment”. The British star, 30, regained his WBA, IBF and WBO belts by comprehensively beating Andy Ruiz Jr in their rematch last month. But AJ may be forced […]
ANTHONY JOSHUA may have to give up one of his world title belts – but he’s happy to do so as it would “create more history and entertainment”.
The British star, 30, regained his WBA, IBF and WBO belts by comprehensively beating Andy Ruiz Jr in their rematch last month.
But AJ may be forced to vacate one of his heavyweight titles after being ordered to take on two mandatory challengers.
Joshua has been told to defend his crowns against Kubrat Pulev and Oleksandr Usyk for his IBF and WBO belts.
Promoter Eddie Hearn is hoping to find a way for AJ to fulfil both fights – and therefore have the chance to retain the two belts.
But should he be forced to vacate one, Joshua has vowed to “stand as champion and get it back again”.
BELTS NOT EVERYTHING
Joshua – who enjoyed a Christmas break in Barbados – told Sky Sports: “I always said the belts do not represent me. I will stand as a champion, even if I have to give one up.
“It would give me an opportunity to face another world champion – I’ve beaten four world champions on my record now.
“If I give up a belt it creates more history and entertainment. If I have to, I’ll give it away – but I’ll get it back again.”
Joshua is next set to enter the ring around April-May time – as he ramps up his preparations to fight one of Deontay Wilder or Tyson Fury later in 2020.
And the fight may not take place at Wembley, with Tottenham’s new 62,062-seater stadium on the cards.
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On the potential venue, AJ revealed: “I’d like that. I’m cool with that.
“I still find it weird that we talk about Wembley and Tottenham.
“I asked Eddie where we will fight next if Wembley isn’t available, and he said Tottenham. I haven’t been to Tottenham’s ground yet.”