‘Leave on a High’ – Anthony Joshua Rejects Klitschko Rematch

‘Leave on a High’ – Anthony Joshua Rejects Klitschko Rematch

Heavyweight champion of the world Anthony Joshua has dealt a major blow to the possibility of a rematch with Wladimir Klitschko, telling the Ukrainian to go hang up his gloves instead.

The Ukrainian former heavyweight king last month lost an epic battle of the ages against Nigerian-born Joshua for the IBF and WBA belts but is keen on triggering a rematch clause in the deal.

But the deck seems stacked against Klitschko as he would be approaching 42 when any re-run of their epic battle could take place while Joshua will be even more experienced and skilled.

With younger, ferocious fighters like Tyson Fury, present WBC holder Deontay Wilder and Joseph Parker all aiming for a pop at the top, AJ has said he would like to see the former great Ukrainian step aside with his head held high, Sun writes.

“If I was Wladimir I would fight again, the type of fight it was, he probably thinks he can beat me and he has nothing to lose,” AJ told fans during a Q&A in London.

“If I was in his position I would fight again but I’m not Wladimir and I do not know what he wants to do.

“But, if I was speaking to Wladimir, I would say,  ‘mate, it was a phenomenal performance, you were very good, but you did not win. Leave on a high and let the other guys do what they’re doing.’”

Joshua is set to be given a grand reception in Nigeria after his sensational climb to the top of the heavyweight division.