Former two-time unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua (24-3, 22 KOs) fights at The O2 in London for the first time since 2016 as he begins life under the tutelage of new head trainer Derrick James. ‘AJ’ will face Jermain Franklin (21-1, 14 KOs). This fight will be the first in Joshua’s new five-year partnership with DAZN to be streamed live, exclusive and worldwide.
Anthony Joshua: “I’m looking forward to stepping back into the ring on April 1 at The O2 in London.” said Joshua. “Mentally and physically I feel ready. I want to put on a show and impress my coach as he has high standards. Franklin has a good style and a great attitude, which he has shown in recent fights.”
Jermain Franklin: “I’m ready to show the world why it’s time for me to take my place at the top of the heavyweight division. Joshua had his time. It’s my time to shock the world! This fight isn’t going to the judge’s card. I will have win number 22 come April 1. That ain’t no April Fool’s joke.”
Will be interesting to see what Joshua brings to the table this time.
I have a hard time seeing how Joshua would lose this fight. He has received the best possible preparation in his fights against Ruiz Jr and Whyte. Since they are not totally different from Franklin in terms of style, weight and length.
I see both Ruiz Jr and Whyte as a finer cup of tea than Franklin. But he is definitely a nut that is not that easy to crack. A good test that Joshua must win.
I think Franklin is from my hometown of Saginaw, Michigan but he’s no Andy Ruiz, not too excited bout his chances.
Good fight to see where Joshua is at and a confidence builder. Along with trying to impress your coach, you could also try to impress the fans and show you still have it
Not so interesting..
Should be easy for AJ.
Does anyone really want to see a match-up where the
only selling point is,,, is AJ finished, shot, done, etc.?
Not Me.
I don’t care about his new television deal. AJ is the #3 fighter in the world and should only be in with the best.
I would have preffered a grudge match with Big baby Jarell Miller or the other Big baby
Not really interested but I can understand him taking this fight since he’s working with a new trainer. But no, I can live without watching this one.
Hopefully AJ can improve and get a couple of wins.
I read where Joshua might try different trainers with each fight .. so he can learn from different trainers. I’m not sure if he was serious but if he can do like Klitchko and find his Emmanuel Steward who knows? He could rule the post-Fury post-Usyk heavyweight division. It’s gonna take more than one fight for Derrick James or any trainer to help him.
Joshua is finished. Actually he was finished after his first loss, he never psychologically recovered from being TKO’d. Confidence shot. Scared to get hit, its over.