Ahead of Anthony Joshua and Ruiz Jr re-match, observers have alleged fear on Anthony Joshua face during his first press briefing and face-off challenge. Although, he has admitted “it feels different” since losing but sent a powerful message to Andy Ruiz Jr with an intense first face-off of the week.
The world heavyweight championship rivals were able to ramp up the mind games at Wednesday’s press conference before their rematch on Saturday.
“I didn’t lose heart or fire in my belly,” Joshua said about losing to Ruiz Jr earlier this year. “There is no fear in my heart, my eyes or my mind.
I didn’t lose any commitment.
“There was a big change and a big shift in the division so it definitely feels different. I turn this stuff into a positive otherwise it will eat you up, and will fold into a way that I don’t want it to go.
“I had to own the situation and make it work for me.
“You always need a challenger’s mindset. I said that with the belts around my waist.
“Hungry, determined, focused on the goal.
“Will it be a special moment (if he wins)? No, because I know I belong there. When I regain the belts I will keep cool, and keep a challenger’s mindset and move onto the next target.”
