Ukrainian heavyweight Oleksandr Usyk suggested on the eve of his second clash with British contender Anthony Joshua that the rematch would carry greater intensity than the first encounter.
In the September 25, 2021 bout, which Usyk won by unanimous decision, the challenger weighed in around 100 kilograms, while Joshua carried a heavier frame by about nine kilograms.
“The difference between that fight and the one coming up is that the championship belts are with me now. I’ll be the one in the ring second, and people will be waiting for my arrival”, the world champion from Ukraine conveyed to Sky Sports in four language versions, reflecting a moment of confidence ahead of the rematch.
“But I also know that being the champion does not automatically make the fight easier for me. It will still demand full focus in the ring. I won’t reveal my game plan or speculate about it. Tonight I’ll step into the ring and do what I have to do.”
The rematch between Usyk and Joshua was scheduled for August 20 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Their first meeting took place in London, the capital of Great Britain.
Before the rematch, Usyk stated his intention to fight for the Ukrainian people and to defend the WBA Super, WBO, IBF, and IBO titles in the showdown with Joshua.