It’ll be an explosive fight, declares Joshua
FANS have been told to expect ‘fireworks’ at the Principality Stadium tomorrow night as world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua defends his titles against Carlos Takam.
Ten days ago, Joshua’s intended opponent, Kubrat Pulev, pulled out of the Cardiff bout with a shoulder injury, leaving Takam to step in and take his shot at the world title at the last minute.
Many now expect Joshua to maintain his perfect record – 19 wins, 19 KOs – with ease, but he believes the change of opponent, who has been training and on standby for this fight for a number of weeks, has spiced things up a bit.
As he looked forward to returning to the Welsh capital – his fourth professional fight was also in the city – the 28-year-old promised excitement.
“Cardiff is good, it’s looking really good,” said Joshua at yesterday’s final press conference at the National Museum of Wales.
“To be fighting again is good. It’s all I do, it’s all I know. It’s an honour to be defending my belts.
“I’ve got a cousin I spar with and he’s just like Takam’s build.
“You could say it’s a potential banana skin, but I’ve trained well.
“I think our styles will definitely create some real good fireworks. I’m looking forward to it, that’s for sure.”
Meanwhile, Cardiff boy Joe Cordina will take part in his fifth professional bout – boasting a record of 4-0 – in front of his home fans on the undercard.
“I’m looking forward to Saturday. Some great fighters like Joe Calzaghe, Enzo Maccarinelli, Steve Robinson, Gavin Rees – all these fighters have left big shoes to fill.
“But I’m on the way and I’m looking forward to emulating what they’ve done. What more can I ask for? I’m fighting here (in Cardiff) so early on in my career. I’ve dreamed of boxing here since I started. It’s an unbelievable feeling.”
More on the big fight; Pages 19, 29, and 41.