Anthony Joshua is training deep in the heart of Texas ahead of his fight with American heavyweight, Jermaine Franklin, and fans believe he’s taking a different approach to this camp.
At the press conference to announce the bout, ‘AJ’ told fans and media that he was ‘focused and locked in’, and that the work he was putting in signified the most seriously he’s taken the sport since the beginning of his career.
The Franklin fight will see Joshua’s first outing with award-winning coach, Derrick James, in his corner. The American also trains the likes of unified welterweight world champion, Errol Spence Jr, and undisputed light middleweight world champion, Jermell Charlo.
Whilst Joshua has kept his head down and not provided many updates from James’ World Class Boxing Gym in Dallas, one picture has fans believing the former unified champion has switched the focus of his training from previous efforts.
A heavy wait ⏳
Live exclusively on https://t.co/QrnkfNRtDcpic.twitter.com/2F9jzgG04l
— Anthony Joshua (@anthonyjoshua) March 12, 2023
Many noted that ‘AJ’ looks less toned than past camps, guessing that he was putting less of a focus on weight training and more on sparring, cardio and technique.
Another said that the reduced muscles mass might prevent any gassing out towards the end of the fight – although it’s worth noting that many expect this one to be over quickly.
There’s no doubt that in his latest snap Joshua’s physique is less defined that his Usyk training for example.
The Olympic Gold Medalist’s muscles have been a talking point throughout his career, highlighted by his domestic rival, Tyson Fury, branding him ‘the bodybuilder.’
Of course, all of the theories as to ‘AJ’s training, game plan and weight are speculation until fight week.
Facing Franklin may not be the toughest test the division has to offer, but it carries an incredible amount of pressure for Joshua to bounce back from his two Usyk defeats in style.
The pair meet in the ring on April 1 at London’s O2 Arena and broadcast live on DAZN.