British boxer Anthony Joshua has remarked that Saturday is “the worst time” for Jermaine Franklin to fight him and described the current heavyweight terrain as shambles.
The former IBF, WBA and WBO champion will face Franklin at the O2 Arena in London where he made his professional debut in 2013.
Despite a record of three loses in five bouts, Joshua is bullish on his chances of claiming victory on Saturday and he claims his American opponent is setting himself up for defeat.
“It’s the worst time [to fight me],” Joshua said in a press conference. “The more he talks the bigger grave he digs for himself. I could say a lot of things about him, but I respect my opponent.
“I’m prepared for a 12-rounder but I do believe in my ability and my counter-punching to put a dent in Jermaine.”
While Joshua has expressed desire to knock out Franklin, his trainer Derrick James anticipates a more difficult match.
“Jermaine Franklin is a very tough fighter,” James said. “I don’t really care how we get it, I just care we get it. Or if it gets to a point where I can see it, let’s go get it.”
Earlier this week, Joshua disclosed his intention to call time on his professional boxing career if he loses Saturday’s bout against Franklin.
