Robert Garcia, who joined Anthony Joshua’s team as a coach ahead of his rematch with Oleksandr Usyk, discussed the route he believes his boxer should take after the loss.
Tell ES News In an interview where he also clarified some of the recently reported comments, Garcia was asked about a rumored clash with Wilder. AJ and the ‘Copper Bomber’ have long been on a collision course, but detours and bumps on the road had always prevented the war from taking place.
Garcia, who has coached many world champions, believes this will be a good match.
“I think it was a really good fight. I think Wilder is very dangerous – he has a power that is unavoidable, and if he lands it will be very difficult. But Anthony [Joshua] has great footwork, great moves, great impact, a straight two, and he hits really hard too. He hit very, very hard. So it was a very good fight.”
Later, however, AJ’s new coach outlined where he thinks the boxer should go before looking for a big fight with the likes of artist KO Wilder.
“I think the smart thing to do with Anthony is to get into a few fights that will be ‘comfortable, will’ be good for you, get your confidence back, [and] your belief in yourself. Then follow another big one”.
“Our first fight together against Usyk? F**k, that’s tough, isn’t it? I think Anthony has a lot left to do, but choose the right fights. Don’t go after the tough game right now. Not saying he can’t beat them, but he has the right. He’s been through two games in a row, it’s been tough. So get a few comfortable wins. Everyone does it.”
The boxer/trainer relationship really faced its ultimate test in its infancy in the form of an extraordinary Ukrainian boxer. AJ appeared lacking despite some success.
It remains to be seen if Garcia will take over the next corner when we see AJ in the ring, though he has already expressed his interest in doing so and told Joshua what will happen for it to become a successful partnership.
