JAKARTA Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has only undergone light training ahead of clashes with Swedish fighter Otto Wallin this weekend.

Joshua is scheduled to enter the ring for the 30th time in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Saturday, December 23, 2023. This British fighter will aim for the 27th victory in his professional career.

Despite aiming for victory, Joshua only underwent a one-minute shadow boxing in Riyadh before he invited local young people into the ring.

Joshua said that he is now only focused on winning over his opponent this weekend rather than having to force himself with heavy training.

"I want to leave you alone. That's a fact. This training is not fun for me. It's just work. What will please me is Saturday night I have to raise my hand," said Joshua, quoted by the Independent.

Joshua continued that he will provide interesting entertainment this weekend to spectators who have struggled to buy tickets and come to Saudi Arabia to see him duel.

"I am here with you because of contract obligations. So, I will fulfill my obligations."

"But, in the end, my real obligation is to fight on Saturday night. I have to win, I have to win. If it is destined and destined to happen then it will happen," he said.

Despite going against Otto Wallin, talks about Joshua's fight revolved around the potential clash between the 34-year-old and Deontay Wilder next year.

Wilder will also be in the ring this weekend against former world champion Joseph Parker on the same card. If they both win then Wilder vs Joshua's duel might happen early next year.

"People have been talking about me for a long time and he (Wilder) is going up in the ring. I think there is more pressure on him than I am," Wilder said of the possible duel.

Wilder and Joshua were repeatedly asked to duel when they both still controlled the heavyweight belt. Unfortunately, their duel did not materialize.

Wilder's WBC title had to change hands after losing against Tyson Fury. Meanwhile, Joshua's title was taken over by Oleksandr Usyk.


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