WEIGHING IN
‘Best out there’ – Anthony Joshua makes blunt prediction for Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk rematch
AJ hasn't minced his words on the eagerly-anticipated rematch
ANTHONY JOSHUA has weighed in with his prediction for Tyson Fury's rematch with Oleksandr Usyk.
The pair, 36 and 37 respectively, are set to renew their rivalry in a second successive Saudi showdown this December.
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Usyk came close to knocking out the Brit on his way to earning a split-decision victory.
Former two-time unified champion Joshua was an interested ringside observer of the Riyadh rumble and likely will be again on December 21.
But AJ doesn't foresee the Wythenshawe warrior avenging the sole defeat of his glittering professional career.
He told Queensberry Promotions: "I think it's going to be a tough fight early on and then I feel like Usyk will edge it again.
"He's a class operator and I feel like Usyk's one of the best out there. That's why I think he'll win."
Fury cut a crestfallen figure after having his dreams of undisputed glory shattered by the enigmatic Usyk.
But he's confident of doing a number on the slick southpaw - the first undisputed king of the heavyweights since Lennox Lewis - second time around.
In a June Instagram video, he roared: "Hey guys, Tyson Fury here. Back in the gym, as you can see.
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"[I'm] counting down the days until I can get my redemption on Usyk.
"December 21 is going to be my time. I've done everything in boxing, but I ain't come back from a loss.
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"And I relish it, the chance to redeem myself GET UP.
"December 21 is all me - undisputed heavyweight here I come."
The former WBC king's accompanying caption read: "On December 21st in Riyadh, in the heart of the kingdom, the king will reclaim his throne and become undisputed.
"Usyk, I’m coming for you! Get ready for the Gypsy King! The path to redemption is all mine.
"I know what I have to do, I saw my shortcomings and best believe I am inevitable."
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