Ex-Coach of Joshua: "We Couldn't Create a Miracle"

Anthony Joshua's (27-3, 24 KOs) former coach, Angel Fernandez, recalled the second confrontation against the champion of the WBA, WBO, IBO, and IBF in the heavyweight division, Oleksandr Usyk (21-0, 14 KOs). He mentioned that they couldn't create a miracle but had a clear plan for the fight.

"The strategy for the second fight was based on an aggressive, counter-punching style to put Usyk in a disadvantageous position and make him commit a mistake.

We couldn't match Usyk's speed at all, so we wanted to start our own game. We observed Usyk, and he waited to apply psychological pressure. Then he started to counteract.

Many talked about the plan for the fight, but as soon as we were there, everything changed quickly. Unfortunately, I didn't have enough time with AJ. We could make changes, but we couldn't create a miracle.

I believe that Usyk is that guy. We made changes, but, unfortunately, it wasn't good enough," Fernandez said.

The rematch between Joshua and Usyk took place on August 20, 2022, where Oleksandr won by split decision.