Anthony Joshua believes he can rule for the next ten years and is ready for the challenge of becoming the undisputed world champion of boxing’s heavyweight division.
Joshua will defend his IBF and WBA titles against Carlos Takam in Cardiff tomorrow night and the British star wants to use the fight as a springboard for a huge 2018 where he aims to unify the division.
Speaking to the BBC, Joshua said he is relishing the “great responsibility” of becoming the first boxer to hold the four heavyweight world titles.
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For that to happen he would need to first beat Takam and then defeat WBC belt holder Deontay Wilder and WBO champion Joseph Parker.
“History is a great thing to chase,” said Joshua. “It’s very possible and a great challenge.”
Joshua also told Sky Sports that he hopes to reign at the top of heavyweight boxing for the next ten years - providing he maintains his discipline.
“I can’t be perfect - I am who I am,” said Joshua. “I have managed to become heavyweight champion of the world and who I am, I can present myself as the person I am today, with a project and vision of improving myself for the future.
“Providing I stay disciplined in my sport, you’ll hear of me for the next ten years, and I’ll definitely progress as a person, and that’s what it’s about.”
We take a look at Anthony Joshua vs. Carlos Takam...
When is Joshua vs. Takam?
The fight takes place in front of more than 70,000 fans at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff tomorrow (28 October). Joshua is expected to make his ring walk at 10.15pm.
How to watch on TV
Joshua vs. Takam will be shown live on Sky Sports Box Office (channels 491 SD and 492 HD). UK viewers will need to pay £19.95 and it’s €24.95 for viewers in the Republic of Ireland. Sky Sports will also show the fight live via live stream, its app and on Now TV.
Joshua vs. Takam betting odds
According to Oddschecker, the latest best prices are:
- Joshua to win 1/25
- Takam to win 17/1
- Draw 50/1
Joshua vs. Takam: predictions
Joshua talking about Takam, who was a late replacement for Kubrat Pulev: “Takam is already as tough as they come. He’s so tough. He just keeps on walking forward and that’s disheartening for a fighter. When I’m in there with him, it will be interesting to see how game and ready he is, and what fire he is ready to go through.”
Takam talking about Joshua: “I don’t know if I’m excited stressed or confused but I’m definitely ready for the fight. It will be a proper fight. I believe in myself. I never go into a fight thinking I might lose - I’m a winner, I like to win not to lose.”
Dillian Whyte, British boxer who will fight on the undercard: “I think it’s an easy fight for Joshua because even though Carlos Takam is strong, he won’t cause Joshua any problems. Carlos Takam is just a little bit too small. Takam will spend the whole night running from the right hand and uppercut and it will be done in about four or five rounds.”
David Price, British boxer: “I don’t actually think any active heavyweight can beat Joshua right now, including myself, but one big shot can change everything. The only fighter who would test him is Tyson Fury, but whether he could get in the shape to take him on, you don’t know.”
