‘AJ’ has captured the hearts of boxing fans around the world from being an established champion to being a huge personality in the sport.
The former Olympian Anthony Joshua has shared the ring with Wladimir Klitschko, Oleksandr Usyk, and Daniel Dubois, among many others. Throughout his career, he has left heavyweight boxing with some memorable moments.
A young Joshua was highly touted after his impressive performance in the 2012 Olympic Games. Living up to the expectations, ‘AJ’ became a world champion in 2016.
However, one of his toughest tests would come two years later, when he took on a fellow champion.
Anthony Joshua was brought the distance for the first time by Joseph Parker
Following his win over Klitschko, Joshua was then the holder of the WBA and IBF World Heavyweight titles. Looking to add a third world title in his 21st fight, he would take on WBO champion Joseph Parker.
Fighting at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales, Joshua looked to improve his perfect record to 21-0 in March 2018. As for former Derek Chisora opponent Parker, he had a professional record of 24-0.
Parker would prove to be a durable and tough opponent for Joshua. However, ‘AJ’ would still have a convincing win over the New Zealander.
The judges would all score the bout in favor of Joshua with wide margins.
Joshua would sting Parker on a number of occasions throughout the fight, however, his finishing streak was broken. After 20 straight stoppages, Joshua won his first decision against Parker.
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Anthony Joshua returned to finishing fashion after Parker victory
Despite hearing the final bell against Parker, Joshua would quickly return to stopping his opponents in his next outing. Facing Alexander Povetkin six months later, it would be a 21st finish for Joshua.
Joshua faced the Russian in Wembley Stadium, as Povetkin had only been bested by Klitschko in his career.
Although both men had success in the opening half of the fight, Joshua would close the show in round seven. A right hand from Joshua would be the final blow of the fight, as Povetkin was stopped for the first time in his career.
The win made ‘AJ’ a 22-0 professional, before Joshua suffered a shock loss to Andy Ruiz in his next outing.