Anthony Joshua said his failure to beat Oleksandr Usyk in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and regain his belts hurts.
The Nigeria-born heavyweight, though much more improved from the first right in London last year, failed to find the killer punch to silence Usyk who was trailing on points after the first five rounds. Usyk put on a great performance prevailing over Joshua via a split decision.
“I tried a different style,” Joshua told reporters following the fight.
“Previously in my career what got me through when I was beating people I have been beating… I was beating them off with sheer hunger and passion.
“In the last fight I wanted to compete as a boxer but it wasn’t good enough and tonight wasn’t good enough.”
Joshua proceeded to break down as he tried to explain the emotions he was currently feeling.
“It’s hard to say I’m proud of myself, I don’t feel anything, I’m upset, deep down in my heart,” Joshua said before breaking down in tears.
Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn intervened before Joshua regained his composure stating he was disappointed with the outcome.
“When you lose, you’re ultimately not happy, it’s just upsetting,” Joshua stated.