In September Oleksandr Usyk became a two-division world champion, defeating Anthony Joshua to win the IBF, WBA, and WBO world titles at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Joshua then took advantage of an immediate rematch clause that was included in their fight contract. The second fight is tentatively scheduled for the first quarter of 2022.
Many analysts believe that Joshua chose the wrong fight plan when he tried to box Usyk, who is considered by many to be one of the most technical boxers in the sport. Joshua has vowed to be much more aggressive in the future and vows to give Usyk a "war" in a rematch.
The British superstar visited the United States last month, where he was spotted with several high-profile trainers. Rumour has it that Joshua is planning to add another coach to his team to work alongside his long-time mentor Robert McCracken.
"I'm not sure who will coach Joshua for the rematch," Usyk told DAZN. "I've seen the news about who he might hire a new specialist for next year, but it doesn't matter to us who trains him. Our goal is to be ready for anything and I'm training to improve my chances, not coming from an opponent. He also promised to be more aggressive and dangerous in the rematch. If that's the case, great. I'll be happy to see that side of Joshua. I'm sure it will be another interesting fight."
Many have criticized Joshua for this defeat, but Usyk is not going to join that criticism. According to the Ukrainian, Joshua performed very well in their fight.
"It's unfortunate to hear how harshly Joshua's performance is being treated because I was in the ring with him and he was very good," Usyk said. "I really don't know where they find a reason to criticise. It was a brilliant fight. Now I'm getting ready for another tough fight against him next year and I'll have to do a lot to keep my title."
