Former heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua has taken his training to Dubai ahead of his rematch with Oleksandr Usyk next year. The British boxer was seen training with American coach, Anthony ‘Chill’ Wilson recently.

Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has confirmed that the fight would hold next year April and that it could possibly take place in the UK: “April is realistic for that fight. AJ is the type that fights twice-a-year, and sometimes we feel like it would be nice to fight three times-a-year. We’ve had offers from around the world, but I think the UK will stage that fight.” Hearn also confirmed that there would be no discussions of a step-aside deal, meaning the fight would hold as planned.

In a video posted recently on social media by Wilson, Joshua was seen throwing body shots, which might be part of his routine as he prepares for his next fixture. Just last week, he was spotted training with WBO Cruiserweight champion, Lawrence Okolie. Recent pictures Joshua has posted on social media shows how ripped he is, which is a sign that he has been pushing his body as much as possible, in a bid to be the stronger man when he faces Usyk in a few months.

It is very good to see that Joshua has begun training. His loss to Usyk may have been caused by errors that he is trying to work on now. Joshua stands taller and weighed more than Usyk when they fought in September, but that did not prove to be an advantage as the Ukrainian won the unanimous decision of the judges to claim victory. Some mistakes may have occurred that Joshua is now aware of. Beginning training this early might just make him ready enough to become the Heavyweight champion for the third time.

Written by: Leon Osamor