Anthony Joshua is facing an inescapable dilemma, a "Catch-22," as he prepares for a highly anticipated bout against Tyson Fury, according to sports writer Jeff Powell MBE.
The paradox stems from recent performances and public perception, both of which Powell suggests have cast doubt on Joshua's ability to withstand Fury's power and mental game. This situation is compounded by Joshua's recent, somewhat controversial, victory over Kristian Prenga in Saudi Arabia.
During the fight against Prenga, Joshua was knocked down twice in the first round. While he recovered to win the bout in the second round, the knockdowns have fueled speculation about his chin. Adding to the intrigue, some observers have questioned why Prenga, who had a record of numerous early knockouts, did not press his advantage after dropping Joshua.
This performance has come on the heels of Joshua's previous knockout loss to Daniel Dubois, where he was dropped five times. Powell suggests that if Joshua's punch resistance was permanently affected by that fight, Fury, a master of mind games, is likely to exploit it.
Beyond physical concerns, there are also questions about Joshua's mental state. Reports indicate he appeared disconsolate and lost in his dressing room before the Prenga fight. Powell speculates that this might be linked to personal bereavements, including the loss of two close friends in a car crash in Africa, an incident Joshua himself was lucky to survive. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, has pondered whether Joshua returned to the ring too soon after these tragedies.
The upcoming fight with Fury is reportedly under contract, with significant financial stakes involved, making it difficult for Joshua to withdraw, even if it were considered best for his health. Fury, having recently defeated Mariusz Wach, has fulfilled his part in the build-up to this long-awaited encounter.
Powell concludes that regardless of whether it is Joshua's chin or his mental fortitude that has declined, Fury will thoroughly examine these vulnerabilities. For Joshua, Powell suggests, there appears to be no escape from this challenging situation.