Usyk opens up on Joshua friendship

Undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has shared details about his evolving friendship with Anthony Joshua, revealing that the two boxers now train together competitively. Usyk, who defeated Joshua in both of their previous encounters, stated that their relationship has deepened since they began collaborating, with the Ukrainian offering to support Joshua.

"AJ is a very kind guy; he supports me every time. I told him, ‘Brother, if you need my help, I can help,’" Usyk said. Joshua spent two weeks training with Usyk, engaging in sparring, drills, and partner work, including punch and defense training. Usyk noted that their swimming pool sessions were particularly beneficial for Joshua.

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AJ is a very kind guy; he supports me every time. I told him, ‘Brother, if you need my help, I can help.’

Usyk described the arrangement as mutually beneficial, emphasizing that the sessions have sharpened Joshua's skills. He jokingly mentioned their races during the swimming sessions. "It is not finished for who wins; it helps each other. AJ is very smart and hungry for work; he wants to learn more. It is discipline. If you do not work, it is a problem," Usyk added.

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It is not finished for who wins; it helps each other. AJ is very smart and hungry for work; he wants to learn more. It is discipline. If you do not work, it is a problem.

Usyk's victories over Joshua four years ago ended the Briton's reign as heavyweight world champion. However, the 39-year-old Ukrainian has since taken his former opponent under his wing, likening their bond to the dynamic between Rocky Balboa and Apollo Creed in the "Rocky" film franchise. Usyk has consistently praised Joshua as respectful, humble, and hard-working, acknowledging his dignity in defeat.

Usyk, who vacated his IBF, WBA, and WBC titles in June, is now focused on a potential fight against Deontay Wilder, which he anticipates will be the final bout of his career. Despite Wilder's recent decline, Usyk considers him a dangerous opponent. Usyk also expressed confidence in Joshua's ability to defeat Tyson Fury, predicting a stoppage within six rounds, stating, "AJ knocks him out in six rounds, right hand."

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AJ knocks him out in six rounds, right hand.