The long-awaited revenge is to take place in Saudi Arabia on August 20 Oleksandr Usyk (19-0, 13 KOs) with Anthony Joshua (24-2, 22 KOs) for the IBF, WBA and WBO heavyweight belts. Both gentlemen today took part in the debut press conference dedicated to this event.
Egis Klimas, manager Usiki: “This is a very important event for both players. Joshua and his new team want the belts back, while Alexander wants to protect them. Because it is quite possible that the best of the two in the next fight will secure the status of the absolute and undisputed heavyweight champion of the world. This will be a historic day for all of boxing."
Robert Garcia, Joshua's new coach: "We started working together in December and today I see a different version of Anthony. On August 20, we will do our best to regain the titles. AJ is bigger, stronger, and I know that by using his strengths, he can do it. Usyk is a great player, he has everything. But we will also be ready for anything. What happened in the past does not matter, the main thing is only what is ahead. I have no doubt that AJ will regain his titles and become world heavyweight champion for the third time. I see how much he wants it and how hard he trains, and I also want this victory. This would be my fifteenth world champion, but the first heavyweight."
Alexander Krasyuk, Promoter Usiki: This is a big event and we are honored to be a part of it. We will proudly represent our country and homeland. May the strongest win."
Anthony Joshua: “I'm still very motivated. I only focus on my immediate goal, which is the fight with Usyk, and the next goal will be the status of the undisputed heavyweight champion. Usyk kicked my ass, but I took the failure like a man and went to fix something. I am looking forward to this fight. These twelve rounds have said a lot to me and will help me in my rematch. Anyone who knows me understands that I can be knocked down, but I will always get up.”
Oleksandr Usyk: We are doing our best to prepare for this fight as best we can. I will give joy to my compatriots by entering the ring."
