Former lightweight champion, Anthony Crolla, reflected on Anthony Joshua’s performance and future in the game on Betfred’s Lightweight Boxing Show.
Recounting the match, the former lightweight champion praised AJ’s improvements over the ‘future celebrity’.
“I think it was a much improved performance. I think it was a great heavyweight fight, but understandably we talk about what happens after the game a lot more than the actual fight, which is really embarrassing.”
“I think he [Joshua] really good body targeting. He had a great round 9… and then Usyk went and did what all great champions are capable of, and bit down on the gum shield, rushed out and ended the teamfight excellently. His 10th round was amazing and he proved why he will become a popular star in the future. “
When it comes to what’s next for the former unified heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist in Joshua, Crolla doesn’t think he should and will retire.
“He [Joshua] lost a close battle with one of the best fighters on the planet in Oleksandr Usyk, but there are still huge battles for him. I think it’s well documented that he has a big deal with DAZN, so he’s going to fight on, you really expect him to fight on. “
“I believe there will be less pressure on Anthony Joshua. It’s been a bit of a rebuilding process for him but, again, nothing to be ashamed of. He lost to a great boxer.”
Against the competition, and ‘Million Dolla’ Crolla imagines AJ will face another heavyweight on the roster in Saudi Arabia.
“In the country, there is Dillian Whyte, and I know Derek’s name has been mentioned. There were some top-notch fights in the heavyweight division. I think, for me – his name is mentioned and a lot of people think he has done enough against Hrgovic – Zhang [Zhilei]. It’s a big fight that can be made. “
As for Joshua himself, he seems to reject all rumors about retirementmaybe we won’t have to wait long to find the next person he will be playing alongside on the ring.
You can watch the full show below:
