Heavyweight boxing champion, Oleksandr Usyk, has backed Anthony Joshua to defeat Tyson Fury in a potential all-British heavyweight showdown, revealing he has been helping his former rival prepare both tactically and mentally.
Joshua is set to return to the ring on July 25 against Kristian Prenga in Riyadh, with a long-anticipated clash against Fury expected later in the year.
In recent months, the 36-year-old has spent time training alongside Usyk in Spain and Ukraine, building a close working relationship with the undefeated Ukrainian champion.
Speaking about the possible bout, Usyk told BBC Sport on Saturday, “In my opinion, if AJ wins against Fury.
“Fury is an unbelievable fighter and Fury is a very dangerous guy but I love how Anthony works and how he has changed.
“I like Fury, he is my greatest best friend, he’s an amazing fighter but I want Anthony to win – he deserves it.”
Usyk, who has beaten both men in the past, said he does not expect Joshua to encounter problems in his upcoming fight, describing it as “official sparring”.
Instead, the focus has been on preparing Joshua for the unique challenge Fury presents.
“We will help him in training.
“We speak about strategy, boxing skills and psychology. We speak about fights, our fights, and I say Champ, come on, don’t stop,” he added
The Ukrainian is currently preparing to defend his WBC title against Rico Verhoeven in Egypt on May 23, and plans to continue working with Joshua in the buildup.
Joshua’s last outing was a comfortable win over Jake Paul in December.
However, he later took time away from boxing following a fatal car crash that killed two of his friends.
Usyk said he could relate to Joshua’s situation, having experienced personal loss during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
“I said, listen, God gave you one more chance. Take this chance and don’t stop or cry. This is life, pray every day and God will help you. Whatever you need I will help,’” Usyk said.
“It’s hard but I think my friends now are like angels.
“Every day I pray for these guys – this is life. I don’t know what waits for my team and me tomorrow, but I continue to work, pray and help,” he said.
He added, “If God gives you a gift every day then appreciate it. It’s hard but you must continue to live because God gives you that.”
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