Yardbarker
x

Anthony Joshua showcased his MMA skills, demonstrating his kicks during a training session.

Joshua is one the best heavyweights of his era, having become a two-time Unified Heavyweight Champion. Following his back-to-back losses against Oleksandr Usyk, there were question marks over whether he was the same fighter. Since working with Ben Davidson, Joshua looks like a more accomplished fighter. He has stopped Otto Wallin and Francis Ngannou in his last two fights.

The win against Ngannou was expected since the former UFC Heavyweight Champion has only had two boxing bouts. That showed the level of difficulty it takes to crossover from MMA to boxing. The same applies to the reverse, as Joshua tried his best to demonstrate his MMA skills. The following clip shows Joshua landing some kicks, showing a different side to his training.

Joshua In MMA

While nothing indicates that Joshua will fight in the Octagon, he can take inspiration from Ngannou. The MMA fighter pushed Tyson Fury on his boxing debut. He dropped the WBC Heavyweight Champion in the third round and made it to the final bell. While he lost a split decision, there were suggestions Ngannou had been robbed. After beating Ngannou, Joshua praised the fighter for having the courage to step into the boxing ring.

“You’re an inspiration … Don’t leave boxing. If you need anything let me know. We’ll speak another time. He’s a great champion. This doesn’t take away anything from his capabilities … he can come again. I told him he shouldn’t leave boxing. He can do well. He’s two fights in and he’s fought the best. He can go a long way if he stays dedicated,” Joshua stated 

Joshua’s Future

Joshua is expected to return to the ring in September. He has been linked with the winner of Filip Hrgovic vs Daniel Dubois. The two boxers will fight on June 1 for the IBF Interim Heavyweight Belt held by Hrgovic. The bout could be for the full title.

Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk box on May 18 for undisputed. They have a rematch clause, meaning the winner may not get to defend against their IBF mandatory. They could be stripped, leaving Joshua with a title shot. Joshua could also face the winner of Fury-Usyk before either rematch takes place. Either way, Joshua was ready to make his return.

“You’ve got Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk for all the belts and then once that’s done hopefully I can kick down the door and get my opportunity. I was hoping June. I’ve got some time to go on dates now and mingle a little bit. I’m training at the minute, I’ve got two months before I get into training camp. I think what they’re saying is be patient because you’ve got Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk for all the belts and then once that’s done hopefully I can kick down the door and get my opportunity,” Joshua added 

Comments

Comments

This article first appeared on BoxingNews.com and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

+

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.