Anthony Joshua vs Andy Ruiz 2: ‘Fearless’ AJ adamant he still has ‘fire in belly’ to avenge loss

Joshua insists he has rediscovered the challenger’s mentality

Jack Rathborn
Wednesday 04 December 2019 16:54 GMT
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Joshua vs Ruiz 2 Press Conference

Anthony Joshua is adamant he is “fearless” entering his world heavyweight title rematch against Andy Ruiz Jr.

The Brit was stunned by the Mexican last June in New York, relinquishing his WBO, IBF and WBA belts.

But Joshua explained why he holds no trepidation ahead of Saturday after rediscovering the “fire in my belly.”

“You always need a challenger’s mind-set. I said that with the belts around my waist,” Joshua said at the final press conference.

“Hungry, determined, focused on the goal. The focus was always there but I have had a change to reflect. Olympics, British title, world title, boom boom boom.

“I fought Majidov, Whyte, Molina, Povetkin and sparred with Little and Wach. I’ve been around the block.

“I didn’t lose heart or fire in my belly. There is no fear in my heart, my eyes or my mind.

“Will it be a special moment? No because I know I belong there. When I regain the belts I will keep cool, and keep a challenger’s mind-set and move onto the next target.”

Joshua is also referring to this fight as “Back to 16” in reference to his position as challenger against Charles Martin to capture his first world title back in 2016.

“It’s important to have a challenger’s mindset,” Joshua claimed. “I call it ‘Back to 16’, it’s back to my 16th fight, staying hungry, determined and focused on the goal.

Ruiz poses with his belts alongside Joshua

“I didn’t come to take part I came ot take over. the focus has always been there, I never had the chance to reflect. I’m not here to put on a show, I’m just here to win.”

Ruiz admitted he anticipates a different Joshua in the rematch, who will bring a new strategy.

“I made my dreams come true, I made history. I was surprised by how many fans I had here. There’s not much to say, I’m ready to rock and roll,” Ruiz confirmed.

“I know he lost weight and will try and box me around. It’s my job to prevent that, I’m ready for whatever comes my way.

“All this hard work and dedication, I’ve done this since I was six years old. I’ll die trying.”

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