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‘AJ’ Says Yes To MMA – “I Like Fighting”

Published by Patrik Kuitunen on 22nd August 2017.

The number one heavyweight champion of the world says he is up for an MMA fight.

Anthony Joshua said in a recent interview with PA Sport that should the opportunity present itself, he is willing to fight under mixed martial arts rules against an MMA fighter.

It seems to be a growing trend right now amongst boxers to mention MMA more often. Recently Tony ‘The Bomber’ Bellew and Michael Bisping agreed on social media to box once the time is right.

Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor are setting the example and Joshua wants a piece of the action as well.

“I like fighting, I’d do whatever. I’d probably get beaten. The only thing that they can’t do is submissions, but they can kick, elbow, bite — whatever they want. Just no submissions. I can’t beat a guy [via submission]. That takes a lot of time to learn the skills and submissions, which I don’t have the time for, but when it comes to pure aggression and fighting rules, I can definitely fight, so I don’t mind that,” said Joshua according to ESPN.com

If Joshua actually does step into an MMA cage, there’s certainly an opponent waiting for him. UFC heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic has called Joshua out a couple of times now but so far the boxer hasn’t said yes.

Joshua also gave his opinion on the upcoming fight between Mayweather and McGregor. Like almost all of his peers, Joshua isn’t giving McGregor much of a chance to win.

“Some of the fighters Mayweather’s fought would probably beat Conor McGregor as well; Conor can’t really compete. He’s coming out of his field and going into Mayweather’s domain. Even though he’s an excellent fighter in UFC, he’s not an excellent boxer. Him crossing over is going to be a real, big challenge. He could give a good account of himself; I think Mayweather will win but as long as he gives a good account of himself, it’ll work really well for him,” commented Joshua.

Joshua himself is expected to defend his IBF title against mandatory challenger Kubrat Pulev either in Cardiff on October 28th or in Las Vegas on November 11th. Promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed that the Principality Stadium is the new front-runner to host Joshua’s next fight.

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