Former champion backs Anthony Joshua to return after heavy defeat

JOSEPH PARKER believes Anthony Joshua can make a comeback despite his devastating loss at Wembley Stadium.

In front of a record-breaking crowd of 96,000 at Wembley Stadium, Daniel Dubois silenced his critics by dominating Joshua and knocking him out in just five rounds.

Parker, a former WBO heavyweight champion, lost to Joshua over six years ago in Cardiff but has since won five consecutive fights, including victories over Zhilei Zhang and Deontay Wilder, solidifying his position as a top contender.

Boxing News caught up with the 32-year-old after the fight to get his thoughts on the match.

“Dubois put immense pressure on Joshua,” Parker commented. “His confidence was evident in his movement and punch combinations, displaying true self-belief.”

Joshua was knocked down three times before the fight was stopped in the fifth round, with Parker noting that Joshua never fully recovered from the first knockdown in the opening round.

“After the first round, it seemed like Joshua struggled to regain his footing each time Dubois pressured him,” Parker added. “Despite showing heart by getting back up, he couldn’t find his rhythm after the early rounds.”

When asked about a potential rematch, Parker focused on Joshua’s ability to bounce back from his fourth loss in five years.

“He remains a huge attraction in the sport. One loss doesn’t define his career. With his two-time world champion status and drawing power, Joshua can take time to recuperate and make a strong return,” Parker concluded.





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