Joshua Aims to Revive Reputation Against Wilder, Fury—Yarde Suggests
Anthony Yarde says Anthony Joshua must recapture his old, knockout mindset to stand a chance against Deontay Wilder or Tyson Fury. Yarde, a London light-heavyweight, believes Joshua’s best, most feared version is the one who attacked relentlessly.
Yarde’s perspective
Yarde, 34, has challenged for world titles three times. He lost those fights to Sergey Kovalev, Artur Beterbiev and David Benavidez.
Speaking on the Split Decision show, he argued Joshua’s approach has changed since the Klitschko victory. He warned a tactical, cautious Joshua could be vulnerable to Wilder’s power or Fury’s unorthodox style.
Meeting at the O2
Joshua, 36, recently came face-to-face with Wilder at the O2 Arena. Talks are reportedly under way about a potential match with Fury later this year.
Yarde said Joshua needs to return to the aggressive performer who dominated after his 2012 Olympic gold. He believes that habit of seeking knockouts made Joshua the division’s most feared fighter.
What Yarde wants to see
Yarde advised Joshua to be decisive in upcoming bouts. He said the most dangerous Joshua is the one who presses forward with intent.
In Yarde’s view, if Joshua reverts to a Mike Tyson-like, high-pressure style, he could beat Wilder. Trying to outbox Wilder, Yarde warned, risks a surprise knockout.
On facing Fury
Yarde added that boxing Fury is difficult. He suggested aggression, rather than a prolonged tactical fight, would give Joshua a better chance.
He also noted Joshua handles criticism well and may respond to challenges by embracing a tougher mentality.
The broader boxing landscape
Yarde said 2024 promises major heavyweight action. Several high-profile and crossover fights are shaping the calendar.
- Tyson Fury is scheduled to return in April against Arslanbek Makhmudov.
- Oleksandr Usyk is set to face Rico Verhoeven.
- Fabio Wardley will defend his British heavyweight crown versus Daniel Dubois.
- Conor Benn will appear under Zuffa Boxing for the first time.
- Canelo Alvarez hopes to return following his loss to Terence Crawford.
Yarde also highlighted rising British talents such as Moses Itauma, Hamzah Sheeraz and Adam Azim. He said they could join the sport’s elite if given the right opportunities.
Joshua’s search for form
Joshua’s path has included major highs and lows. His 2017 Wembley win over Wladimir Klitschko marked a turning point.
Two years later, he suffered the upset loss to Andy Ruiz. That defeat triggered training changes and extensive soul-searching.
Joshua has cycled through coaches and training locations. He has worked in Dallas, Harlow and now trains alongside Oleksandr Usyk in Spain.
Yarde summed up his advice simply. If Joshua has two more major fights, he should “AJ it” — go in and finish the job.
Report compiled by Filmogaz.com.
