Everyone notes the character and skill of the Ukrainian
In Saudi Jeddah on Saturday night, WBA/WBO/IBF/IBO world champion Oleksandr Usyk defended his titles by defeating Anthony Joshua in a split decision rematch. The Ukrainian also added The Ring title to his belts, rising to first place in the ranking of the best heavyweights in the world. Sport Arena gathered the reaction of the boxing community to the Usyk-Joshua rematch. Colleagues in the workshop paid a well-deserved tribute to the Ukrainian.
Lennox Lewis, former world heavyweight champion
“Great fight Usyk. I congratulate the Ukrainian on the victory. Definitely he deserved it. Anthony Joshua also put on a great fight, that’s true. As well as the fact that there are more big fights that we want to see.”
Wladimir Klitschko, former world heavyweight champion
“What an amazing fight, I am very proud of both fighters. Usyk showed the fortitude, heart and tactical strategy of a real champion! Glory to Ukraine”.
Andre Ward, former undisputed world champion
“I think Joshua looked better this time. But that just wasn’t enough. Usyk has too much IQ for Joshua. No disrespect to Anthony. I still respect what he did in amateurs and pros. You can look like the greatest fighter against certain people. But if you don’t work on yourself, you don’t develop. Joshua has an amazing right arm that flies like a rocket. But if you remove this element, drag him into deep waters and make him think, then you will see psychological fatigue covering him.
Read also: Usyk landed more shots than Joshua – CompuBox
Joe Joyce, British heavyweight
“It was exciting when Joshua tried to land powerful punches. He looked to see if Usyk was waiting for this, but then the mobility and technical skills that Alexander showed were phenomenal. He miscalculated Joshua, dodged and also delivered punches. So I think the strongest won.”
Devin Haney, Undisputed Lightweight Champion of the World
“Why did Joshua try to outbox his opponent again? Respect Usyk. He went to war and then defended his belts and his country.”
Tony Bellew, former world champion
“Anthony should be proud of his performance today! This is the hardest and biggest event that Usyk has ever experienced in his career. Joshua will be back and I believe big and amazing fights are in store for him in the near future.”
Terence Crawford, undisputed world champion
“Usyk has boxed very well in the last few rounds. In my opinion, he won. Joshua understands that he lost.”
Ivan Redkach, Ukrainian boxer
“Congratulations, Yusik! It was a great fight! I’m sorry I hated you, I won’t do it again. I plead guilty! Smart girl.”
Teddy Atlas, American trainer and expert
“Joshua could not use swear words after the fight. In the end, he did well, showing his humanity, but no matter what legendary fighters he called, he lost this fight. Just because Joshua had one good round in the rematch, which he couldn’t do in the first fight, gives him the right to say he won. Anthony needs to face the truth, and I hope his overseas fans will too.”
Michael Hunter, American heavyweight
“Tendril. Copy paste”.
Martin BakoleCongolese heavyweight
“Great job Usyk.”
Mairis Briedis, World Light Heavyweight Champion
“Ukraine has something to be proud of”
Source: Sportarena
I’m Todderic Kirkman, a journalist and author for athletistic. I specialize in covering all news related to sports, ranging from basketball to football and everything in between. With over 10 years of experience in the industry, I have become an invaluable asset to my team. My ambition is to bring the most up-to-date information on sports topics around the world.
