AJ admits ‘I learned my lesson’

ANTHONY JOSHUA has watched a recording of his defeat by Oleksandr Usyk and declared “I’ve seen my mistakes and learned my lesson.”

Joshua failed to defend his WBA, IBF and WBO crowns and was thoroughly outclassed by Usyk, who won on a unanimous decision at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium last weekend.

Post-fight, Joshua (above) vowed to come back stronger.

And in a brief update to fans on social media this week, Joshua said: “I’ve watched the fight, analysed my preparations & identified my mistakes. I’ve learnt my lesson.

“Thanks for sending love & checking in. Don’t worry about me. My spirit is strong!”

His tactics on the night were questioned by a number of highprofile current or former boxers, with the Watford fighter unable to use his height, reach and weight advantages as Usyk routinely imposed his will.

Usyk’s team confirmed this week a rematch clause has been activated, and the Ukrainian hopes the return bout will take place on home soil at Kiev’s Olimpiyskiy Stadium.

Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn can not see that on economic grounds, reasoning a rematch would likely be held in the UK again.