'This is the worst time to face me' - Anthony Joshua ready to bounce back against Jermaine Franklin.
English professional boxer of Nigerian descent Anthony Oluwafemi Joshua has talked about the timing of his next fight.
The 34-year-old returns to the ring after a six months absence against American professional boxer Jermaine Franklin.
Joshua and Franklin have been going at it on social media but finally came face to face at the official fight press conference on Wednesday, March 29, 2023.
Jermaine Frnaklin on victory against Anthony Joshua
Franklin earlier in the week stated that he aims to get a knockout victory on his return to the United Kingdom.
The Michigan man went 12 rounds with English boxer Dillian Whyte last November and lost via a split decision by the judges.
At the press conference, Franklin was not insistent on the method but getting his hand raised by any means at the end of the fight.
He said, I'm going to get the win by any means by any means possible, but if I can put him on his a** then that's what I'll do.
"Anything's possible. I've made it this far, so anything is possible. I believe my hand will be raised at the end of the fight on Saturday."
Anthony Joshua on Jermaine Franklin
Joshua on the other hand talked about getting back to winning ways after two straight defeats to Ukrainian professional boxer Oleksandr Usyk.
He talked about respect for his opponent and putting on a show for the fans while aiming for a victory.
He said, We don't play boxing, but at the same time, people have always loved watching people come together and fighting. It will be entertaining regardless, and I think we'll see blood.
"I just can't wait to get in there. I'm so happy I'm fighting again. Looking at the champions, it's just a shambles.
"I can't believe no fights have been made at championship level, but I'm just so excited to get back in there."
The worst time to fight Anthony Joshua?
Joshua reiterated that he is over losing the IBF, IBO, WBA, and WBO heavyweight titles to Usyk.
He reminded Franklin that there will be no hangover from back-to-back losses when they face off in the ring.
He said, "It's the worst time to fight me. The more he talks the bigger grave he digs for himself, but it is what it is.
"I could say a lot about him by respect my opponent. It's not for me to talk, it's for me to do my job on Saturday.
"I've prepared for a 12-rounder, but I do believe in my ability to put a dent in Jermaine Franklin."
Joshua takes on Franklin at the 02 SArena in London on Saturday, April 1, 2023.
Related content
14:43 - 29.03.2023
'I think he needs me' - Anthony Joshua explains redemption path for Tyson Fury
After the undisputed collapse, Anthony Joshua tells Tyson Fury to redeem himself with a British showdown.
10:40 - 29.03.2023
Anthony Joshua makes retirement promise ahead of Jermaine Franklin fight
'I will retire if I lose' - Anthony Joshua makes promise on retirement.
08:10 - 28.03.2023
'I want to knock him out' - Jermaine Franklin sends warning to Anthony Joshua
'His career is on the line' - Jermaine Franklin explains what is at stake for Anthony Joshua
18:56 - 25.03.2023
'If I lose against him my career is done' - Anthony Joshua explains importance of Jermaine Franklin fight
Anthony Joshua says his career is over if he loses against Jermaine Franklin.