“That Would Have Decapitated a Normal Man”: Eddie Hearn Sets the Record Straight on Anthony Joshua’s Chin
In the world of combat sports, few things are as scrutinized as a fighter’s chin. For Anthony Joshua, this scrutiny has been relentless. Despite his remarkable career, which includes two reigns as unified heavyweight champion, some still question his ability to withstand a punch. Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter, is determined to set the record straight, emphasizing that AJ’s chin is far from weak.
Joshua’s Chin Under Fire
The criticism about Joshua’s chin resurfaced recently, notably from former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, who claimed, “I heard he doesn’t have a chin.” Ngannou, however, didn’t get the chance to test this theory as Joshua knocked him out cold in the second round of their crossover fight in Riyadh. This victory added another chapter to Joshua’s storied career, but doubts about his resilience persist.
Eddie Hearn Defends Joshua
Eddie Hearn, in an interview with Seconds Out, passionately defended Joshua’s ability to absorb powerful blows. “AJ has a really, really good chin. Watch the shots AJ took in the Wladimir Klitschko fight. The right hand that would’ve decapitated a normal man, AJ got up from,” Hearn asserted.
The Klitschko Battle
One of the most significant tests of Joshua’s chin came during his fight against Wladimir Klitschko. The Ukrainian legend delivered a punishing right cross in the sixth round, knocking Joshua to the canvas. Yet, Joshua’s resilience shone through as he recovered and ultimately won the fight in a dramatic eleventh-round knockout. This victory solidified Joshua’s status as a formidable force in boxing.
In the interview with Seconds Out, Eddie Hearn waxed lyrical on AJ’s ability to hold up against massive power punches from his opponents. “AJ has a really, really good chin. Watch the shots AJ took in the Wladimir Klitschko fight. The right hand that would’ve decapitated a normal man, AJ got up from.”
The Andy Ruiz Jr. Encounter
Hearn also highlighted Joshua’s first bout with Andy Ruiz Jr. “Even vs Andy Ruiz, he kept getting up,” Hearn noted. In what was supposed to be a routine title defense, Joshua faced an unexpected challenge. Ruiz knocked Joshua down twice in the third round. Despite the barrage, Joshua survived four more rounds before the fight was stopped in the seventh. The rematch saw Joshua regain his titles with a disciplined and cautious performance.
Hearn rightly pointed out, “Even vs Andy Ruiz, he kept getting up.”
Hearn said, “Oleksandr Usyk hit him with the kitchen sink and he never had him out. Look what happened to Tyson Fury, never saw AJ like that in that fight. AJ’s got a great chin.”
The Usyk Challenge
Oleksandr Usyk, a technical master, tested Joshua in two bouts. Despite Usyk’s relentless assault, Joshua stood firm, going the distance in both encounters. Hearn pointed out, “Oleksandr Usyk hit him with the kitchen sink and he never had him out. Look what happened to Tyson Fury, never saw AJ like that in that fight. AJ’s got a great chin.” Joshua’s ability to withstand Usyk’s punches without being knocked out further reinforces the argument that his chin is underrated.
The Upcoming Clash with Daniel Dubois
Joshua’s next challenge is an all-British showdown against Daniel Dubois for the IBF heavyweight title. Scheduled for September 21, 2024, at Wembley Stadium, this fight offers Joshua another chance to prove his mettle. Dubois, known for his knockout power, will undoubtedly test Joshua’s chin once more. Hearn’s confidence in Joshua’s resilience will be put to the test in this high-stakes encounter.
Joshua’s Call to Alex Pereira
Amid the ongoing debates about his chin, Joshua has been vocal about potential crossovers in combat sports. Following Alex Pereira’s knockout victory over Jiri Prochazka, Joshua suggested on social media, “Alex Pereira should make a boxing debut one day.” Pereira, with his devastating knockout power, could bring an exciting dynamic to the boxing world.
Fan Reactions and Future Prospects
Joshua’s chin remains a hot topic among fans and pundits. Some fans believe Joshua has a solid chin but has faced exceptionally powerful opponents. Others remain skeptical, pointing to the times he has been knocked down. Regardless, Joshua’s career continues to captivate, and his resilience is part of what makes his journey compelling.
Anthony Joshua’s career is a testament to resilience and skill. Despite the criticisms, his ability to absorb and recover from powerful punches is evident. As he prepares for his upcoming fight against Daniel Dubois, fans and critics alike will watch closely. Whether or not Joshua’s chin is ever truly “proven” may remain a matter of opinion, but his achievements and the battles he has fought speak volumes about his strength and tenacity.
