Anthony Joshua is Certain He is a ‘Gladiator’ Ahead of Dubois Fight

Wembley Stadium might just become the next Colosseum.

Anthony Joshua (28-3, 25 KOs) is gearing to battle it out for Daniel Dubois’ (21-2, 20 KOs) IBF heavyweight title on Saturday. Joshua is undoubtedly confident about his skillset as the day of judgment quickly approaches so much so that he is even ready to perform at gladiator-esque levels to ensure a spectacle on fight night.

Joshua was talking at DAZN Boxing’s “Up Close with Anthony Joshua.” The fight will mark Joshua’s return to Wembley Stadium since 2020. In conversation, he mentioned that his performance does not change regardless of where the fight occurs. “I’ve done it in my mind already. I’m a gladiator. I’m walking to the ring to conquer. Like there have been men that have conquered continents and countries that are breathing the same air as me and you. Like, come on, let me go out there and try and be like them,” he said.

Joshua further mentioned that he was capable of taking himself out of his body and not letting the fight get personal. However, he was certain that fans would witness a different beast inside the ring. “I’m sitting ringside. Who do I want to see in that ring? I want to see a killer; I want to see a beast in that ring. So, it’s my time to do it; let me be that person,” he added.

“My Gladiatorial Spirit”

It sure seems like the armed combatants of the erstwhile Roman empire have a special place in Joshua’s heart. And this certainly is not the first time that Joshua compared his performance and mindset to that of a gladiator.

“I feel like I’m ready for my fight. The canvas is good, the size is good, I just need to get my wraps and my gloves on and I can fight today. There’s no emotions; I’m just here. I’m expecting more media, more talking, more training, and most importantly, walking into the ring showing 96,000 people my gladiatorial spirit,” he said while talking to Sky Sports about his upcoming fight. “It means everything; it’s what it’s about, opening doors for people like people did for me too.”

Joshua Ben Joseph

Joshua Ben Joseph is a Boxing writer renowned for his unparalleled coverage of live events and insightful interviews with prominent athletes in the world of combat sports. With a career spanning over several years, he has authored more than 800 articles. As an experienced editorial cartoonist and investigative journalist, Joshua has a keen eye for detail and a passion for delivering quality content. Aside from his writing, Joshua is an avid powerlifter and solo traveler, embodying the same spirit of determination and exploration that he brings to his work. With a deep love for the sport of boxing that dates back to childhood, he is committed to delivering the highest quality content and helping to build a more transparent and credible industry.

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