Anthony Joshua has admitted that he let himself down with his actions after being defeated by Oleksandr Usyk.
The 32-year-old tennis player lost to the Ukrainian for the second time in less than a year on Saturday night, he failed to regain the WBA Super, IBF, IBO and WBO world heavyweight titles at the Jeddah Superdome in Saudi Arabia.
Joshua lost in a split decision, with scores of 113-115, 116-112 and 115-113, respectively, 11 months since being beaten by Usyk last September at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. London.
And after the tears got stuck in post-war press conference after his characterless words in the aftermath‘AJ’ released a statement on Sunday after putting himself in “a dark place”.
“I wish Oleksandr Usyk continued success in your quest for greatness. You are an act of class, champion.
“Yesterday, I had to put myself in a dark place to fight for the title.
“I’ve had two battles, one with Usyk and one with my feelings, and both of them overestimated me.”
Joshua produced a much-improved performance against the undisputed cruiser class champion, who has now named WBC champion Tyson Furyin his first fight under new coach Robert Garcia.
But that wasn’t enough against a man who is undoubtedly a top-level operator and who moved to 20-0 with 13 quick shots as Joshua slid to 24-3 (22 KOs) after losing three of his last five matches.
AJ added:
“I will be the first to admit, I let myself down.
“I acted out of passion and pure emotion and when it’s out of control it’s not great.
“I love this sport so much and I will get better from this point on. Respect.”
