Ahead of Saturday’s world heavyweight title rematch clash between Anthony Joshua and Oleksander Usyk both boxers gained more weight, but Joshua was heavier.
For 107 seconds both boxers were locked eyeball to eyeball at the King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. It is an indication they mean business and are ready to fight for control of the ring as they square up for the WBA, WBO and IBF belts held by Usyk after he beat Joshua in unanimous points decision at the Tottenham Stadium, London last year.
The Ukrainian boxer tipped the scales at 100.5 kilograms at the weigh-in. He was 100kg in the first fight. Joshua came in at 110.9 kilograms, which is slightly heavier than the first fight.
“All this stuff doesn’t matter, it’s just about the fight,” said Joshua, who is looking to regain the belts and become a three-time world champion.
“Weight, face-offs – none of it matters to me. I’m just looking forward to the fight.”
Asked what he expects to happen in the 10,000-capacity King Abdullah Sports City Arena on Saturday, Joshua said: “I’m ready for 12 rounds. Anything shorter than that is a bonus.”
A more aggressive approach is expected from Joshua after being dominated by the smaller Usyk last year.