Joshua vs Povetkin: Anthony Joshua says Alexander Povetkin knows how to knock someone out
Wednesday 29 August 2018 12:23, UK
Anthony Joshua knows that Alexander Povetkin has knockout power – and has identified the key punch to be wary of.
Upcoming challenger Povetkin was last seen brutally knocking out David Price and will aim to deal Joshua the same fate on September 22, live on Sky Sports Box Office, when they meet for the IBF, WBA and WBO heavyweight titles.
"In terms of that performance, you can see he knows how to knock someone out," Joshua told Sky Sports on Wednesday when asked about Povetkin beating Price.
He's got a great left hook. Triple left hook sometimes, he throws.
"He's got a great left hook. Triple left hook sometimes, he throws. So basically he showed that he knows how to knock someone out. I showed that night that I know how to go 12 rounds [against Joseph Parker]."
Povetkin has 24 knockouts from 35 fights, with his only loss coming to Wladimir Klitschko five years ago.
Joshua was taken the distance for the first time in his most recent fight against Parker but has vowed not to need the judges against Povetkin.
"Parker survived, no disrespect to him, but he went onto the back foot," Joshua said. "I boxed cleverly because I thought I was fighting Deontay Wilder next so I didn't get involved. Now, I've had time to reflect on my performance and I think I'll go back to the old me.
"No worries about who is next. I know who is supposed to be next. Is it Parker, Wilder, Kubrat Pulev, Povetkin?
"I'll go guns blazing."
Povetkin has held a version of the WBA belt and the 38-year-old won an Olympic gold medal eight years before Joshua emulated his achievement.
Joshua said: "Povetkin is a gold medallist, unbelievable pedigree, and has come through the professional rankings very well. I've watched him for a long time.
"He is one of the best fighters on my record. He has a style I enjoy competing with, and I have no problem with - left hooks, right hand, defending and countering, boxing at range.
"I know Alex can box - there's no doubt - but in terms of his style - solid base, gravity under his feet, swinging hooks versus someone with an English style. It makes for a great fight. We will gel for an interesting match-up.
"What do I have to do to beat him? Just be confident and believe in myself. I've been taught how to fight and I can definitely do that."
Povetkin said at Wednesday's Wembley press conference that "experience" would be key, but Joshua's trainer Rob McCracken disagreed.
"Povetkin has power, a very good jab which is underrated," McCracken said. "Joshua is 10 years younger, height, reach, power and ability. That will show in the fight."
Watch Anthony Joshua defend his world heavyweight titles against Alexander Povetkin at Wembley Stadium, on September 22, live on Sky Sports Box Office.
