Posted by Samuel on Thu 21st Nov, 2019 - tori.ng
Anthony Joshua has spoken about his chances ahead of his title fight with Andy Ruiz in Saudi Arabia.
Ruiz and Joshua
According to Reuters, Anthony Joshua has said his first career defeat at the hands of Andy Ruiz Jr. was down to a lack of experience and he has become a “smarter” fighter ahead of December’s rematch.
Mexican-American Ruiz produced one of boxing’s biggest upsets when he dethroned the previously undefeated world heavyweight champion with a seventh-round stoppage at New York’s Madison Square Garden in June.
“It wasn’t burnout. The issues I faced in the last camp, it’s just down to lack of experience,” he told BBC. “Even though it was at a high level, we were still finding experience.
“Andy Ruiz is good but I don’t think he should beat me twice. I used to hear guys say you have to take a loss and I would think ‘why?’”
“Now I can understand it and know what it takes. I have more understanding now and my ears are open to new information so that’s making me smarter as a fighter. Anyone can be hungrier, I am smarter.”
The WBA, IBF and WBO heavyweight title rematch — dubbed the ‘Clash on the Dunes’ — will take place in Saudi Arabia on Dec. 7 after former Olympic champion Joshua triggered a rematch clause.
“The blessing is I have a second chance and here we are,” the 30-year-old added.