Anthony Joshua seemed to say Tuesday that we’ll see a different fighter from the one who was knocked down four times and stopped by Andy Ruiz Jr. in June. Joshua lost his three heavyweight titles that night.
They’ll meet against Saturday in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia on DAZN.
“I’m forever changing, that’s what training camp is about, evolution, like night and day,” Joshua said during an open workout. “I shed the skin from last time, re-built myself, and all I’m doing is going to win. That’s what I’m focused on.”
Many observers wonder about Joshua’s psyche after the way he lost to Ruiz, who said the Englishman quit.
Of course, we’ll see where Joshua’s mind is when he steps through the ropes but he’s saying the right words leading up to the fight.
“It’s been about being confident, about knowing my capabilities,” Joshua said. “I’ve had a great training camp, I am well prepared, and ready to showcase my skills.”
Joshua (22-1, 21 knockouts) acknowledged that he has thought a lot about Ruiz (33-1, 22 KOs) and their first fight the past six months. Ruiz replaced Jarrell Miller as Joshua’s opponent after Miller tested positive for banned substances.
“He’s been on my mind five weeks prior to June 1 because that’s when he came in as my replacement, and he will be on my mind forever,” Joshua said.
And Joshua said fans should expect a third fight between them.
“If Andy Ruiz is dedicated to the game, we will see each other a third time down the line as well,” he said. “This won’t be the last time I see Andy Ruiz in the ring … because I think we make for good fights.”