Anthony Joshua ready to ‘go to war’ as Kubrat Pulev predicts ‘terrifying’ fight

Fighting talk | Anthony Joshua (left) and challenger Kubrat Pulev
Nick Potts/PA
Richard Parry11 September 2017

Anthony Joshua is eagerly anticipating his return to the ring, and Britain’s world heavyweight champion says he is ready to ‘go to war’ if he has to.

The 27-year-old will look to defend his IBF title against Bulgarian Kubrat Pulev next month, in what will be Joshua’s first fight since he defeated Wladimir Klitschko in April at Wembley Stadium.

It was a coming of age bout for Joshua. 11 rounds against a legend of the sport, albeit an aging one.

Pulev, 36, is a two-time European champion himself, but the Joshua’s opponent made a striking omission in their first pre-fight press conference, and in particular, the magnitude of the challenge he faces.

Kubrat Pulev (L) of Bulgaria exchanges punches with Tony Thompson (R) during their IBF International heavyweight fight Photo: Getty Images
Martin Rose/Bongarts/Getty Images

Pulev said: “I know the match will be terrifying but physically I feel energised and mentally I am ready.”

But Joshua is taking nothing for granted as he prepares for their fight in Cardiff’s Principality Stadium.

The contest is expected to break Muhammad Ali’s 39-year-old attendance record for an indoor fight, and Joshua says he has to be prepared for the ‘toughest challenge’.

“I've been looking forward to getting back in the ring – as soon as my last fight was over, I wanted to know what's next?” said Joshua.

“It's about finesse and outclassing my opponents, but if I have to go to war, I'm prepared to go to the trenches.

“Sometimes you can watch a million videos but it's always different when you step in the ring, and I've got to be ready for the toughest challenge.”

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