By Dipo Olowookere
British boxer with Nigerian heritage, Anthony Joshua, on Saturday night reclaimed the heavyweight titles he initially lost to his American counterpart, Andy Ruiz, some months ago.
Anthony Joshua, fondly called AJ by his fans, defeated his opponent in a 12-round rematch by a unanimous decision in Saudi Arabia. The three judges for the match scored the fight 119-109, 118-110 and 118-110 in favour of Anthony Joshua, who has roots in Sagamu, Ogun State, south west Nigeria.
About six months ago, the American boxer stunned the world when he beat the 2012 Olympic gold medallist from Great Britain by knockout at the Madison Square Garden, New York, USA.
But at the rematch last night, the lanky heavyweight boxer showed a superior power over his chubby opponent to take back his WBA, WBO and IBF belts and stamp his authority in the division.
Anthony Joshua looked calm during the game, throwing jabs and fighting like someone with a game plan to win by points rather than via a knockout. He drew the first blood when he gave Andy Ruiz a cut in his left eye in the early round. His opponent responded later in the match to inflict a cut on his eye too.
Speaking after the fight, Anthony Joshua said, “First of all, thanks to God. The first time was so nice, I had to do it twice.
“I knew I could win this. This is about boxing; I’m used to knocking guys out.
“I gave the man his credit, I said I would correct myself, I respect Andy, But I wanted to put on a boxing masterclass.
“It’s the sweet science, it’s about hitting and not getting hit.
“No change in mentalist, stay hungry and stay humble. I’m going to remain humble in victory. Thanks to Ruiz and his family, thanks to Saudi, the fans and thanks to god and Eddie Hearn.”
Anthony Joshua’s victory on Saturday night has spurred requests on social media for a fight between the British boxer and an American boxer, Deontay Wilder.
Modupe Gbadeyanka