Oleksandr Usyk has pledged to assist Anthony Joshua in his bid to defeat Tyson Fury. Joshua, a former world champion who has lost to Usyk on two occasions, has joined forces with the undefeated, unified heavyweight champion's training team.
Usyk has extended a warm welcome to Joshua, stating, 'We collaborate, work together, and share jokes - it's an enjoyable experience. Previously, we were rivals, but now we've developed a friendship.' As a two-weight, three-time undisputed world champion, Usyk has twice bested Fury and is well-positioned to offer Joshua valuable guidance on how to tackle the former two-time heavyweight champion. Usyk expressed his confidence in Joshua's abilities, saying, 'I believe AJ will triumph over my friend Fury.' Negotiations are underway for Joshua to face Fury in an highly anticipated all-British heavyweight showdown later this year, according to Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn.
Usyk may even be present in Joshua's corner for the Fury fight. Hearn revealed that Joshua's training with Usyk has already yielded significant improvements, and he is optimistic about Joshua's chances. 'The setup is incredible, and being around the best fighter in the sport is a privilege,' Hearn said.
'Joshua has found a new sense of purpose and is now fighting for more than just titles - he's driven by personal motivations as well.' Usyk is currently preparing for his own upcoming fight against Rico Verhoeven, a dominant heavyweight kickboxing champion making his top-level boxing debut, on May 23 in Giza. Usyk remains focused on his immediate task, stating, 'For me, it's just another fight - I'm a master boxer.'