Carl Froch believes Anthony Joshua would fall short in a third fight with Oleksandr Usyk, who he’s labelled the best heavyweight in the world.
Joshua stopped Francis Ngannou with a devastating right hand in the second round of their showdown in Saudi Arabia, his fourth straight win since back-to-back, comprehensive points defeats to Usyk, in which he surrendered his heavyweight titles.
Despite a clear resurgence and a blistering performance over Ngannou, who dropped Tyson Fury before losing on a contentious split decision on his professional boxing debut in October, ’The Cobra’ feels a third bout between ‘AJ’ and the masterful Ukrainian would end the same way.
Asked on his YouTube channel, Froch on Fighting who would win a third fight, Froch said: “I’ve got to say Usyk.
“He’s already beaten him twice.
(Photo Credit: Mark Robinson, Matchroom)
“I feel like when Usyk steps on the gas and ups the tempo and the work rate he dominates.
“It’s not like it’s a close fight, I think Usyk is far superior.
“But the question’s a good question, because Anthony Joshua looked very good albeit against Ngannou, who was making his second fight as a professional.
“He’s punching with confidence.
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“He’s looking at his opponent in the eyes and he’s standing with authority and he’s stepping in with his punches, he’s rotating his body through and that’s why he knocked out Ngannou in devastating fashion.”
Usyk is preparing to defend his unified WBA ‘super’, WBO and IBF titles against WBC titlist, Fury on May 18 in Saudi Arabia, a clash which will determine the first undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis achieved the feat in 1999 and the inaugural four-belt holder.
Should the 37-year-old defeat ‘The Gypsy King’, he would also become only the second man in history behind Evander Holyfield to win the undisputed championship at both cruiserweight and heavyweight.
Former super middleweight world champion, Froch has hailed Usyk as the number one in the division.
“I’d have to say Usyk’s the best heavyweight in the world at the minute,” the 46-year-old added.
“What an exceptional talent. What a great fighter.
“Don’t forget he’s got two wins over Anthony Joshua, so I can’t say AJ wins.
“100% he’s got his number.
“Great fight and it would be interesting now, but I think unfortunately Usyk beats AJ.”
