Anthony Joshua knocked out Robert Helenius in the seventh round of their heavyweight contest recently, and Tony Bellew was impressed by the showing on commentary.
Despite many fans and pundits feeling ‘AJ’ was being a little tentative in the fist half of the bout, Bellew suggested that he may be doing so to get the rounds in under his new trainer, Derrick James.
The former cruiserweight world champion also suggested that the Brit’s power was on a level with Deontay Wilder’s, the American knockout artist ‘AJ’ is looking to face off with next.
Carl Froch – also a pundit for broadcaster DAZN on occasion – suggested on his YouTube channel that Bellew not be booked for Joshua fights in future.
“Tony Bellew, another good friend of mine. He’s got a problem when he commentates on fights, because he’s so loyal, he’s a proper passionate scouser, and he doesn’t want to give any criticism.”
“Tony finds it difficult to criticise Derek Chisora, he finds it hard to give Anthony Joshua any honest criticism, so maybe he shouldn’t be commentating or giving his analysis on his friends because fans and people viewing wants an honest opinion.”
In Bellew’s defence, he did say in the post-fight analysis that the version of Joshua on show was not enough to beat the current heavyweight champions, and suggested he fight as regularly as possible to build up momentum.
Despite that advice, it looks like Joshua will be moving straight into a fight with Wilder if the teams can get the final papers signed.
It’s expected for early 2024 in Saudi Arabia, and likely to be a ‘blink and you’ll miss it’ affair whoever has their hand raised.