Oleksandr Usyk Reflects on Bond With Anthony Joshua After Rivalry
In boxing, rivalries are often fierce and defining, but every so often, they evolve into something far more meaningful. That’s the case with Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua two heavyweights who once stood across from each other in some of the sport’s biggest fights, and now appear to share a bond built on mutual respect.
The pair first met in 2021, when Usyk outboxed Joshua to claim the unified heavyweight titles in a performance that stunned many. Their rematch in 2022 was even more competitive, but Usyk once again came out on top, reinforcing his place at the top of the division. Those two fights could have cemented a lasting rivalry but instead, they seem to have laid the foundation for something different.
Oleksandr Usyk calls Anthony Joshua his big brother
Speaking about Joshua, Usyk made it clear that his perspective has changed over time. He said:
“Now he’s my big, big brother. Not my rival, not my opponent. He’s my partner. My brother.
Anthony is a champion. He doesn’t have belts now, doesn’t matter. Champion is a man who never gives up.”
It’s a striking statement, especially considering the history between the two. Rather than defining Joshua by those defeats, Usyk chose to highlight his resilience and mindset qualities that, in his eyes, truly define a champion. What makes this even more interesting is that Joshua is now reportedly training alongside Usyk as he prepares for a potential return to the ring. It’s a rare sight in boxing: former opponents working together, sharing knowledge, and pushing each other forward rather than competing.
For Joshua, who has been looking to rebuild momentum, training with someone who defeated him twice could offer both technical insight and mental clarity. For Usyk, it further reflects his respect for Joshua not just as a fighter, but as a person. In a sport often driven by rivalry and ego, this shift in dynamic stands out. It shows that even after high-stakes battles, respect can take over and sometimes, former opponents can become allies.
READ MORE: Anthony Joshua Shares Inspirational Quote As He Plans To Return To Boxing
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