The biggest story of Wednesday’s open workouts in London was that Anthony Joshua, who eventually took to the ring with young boxers from his old Finchley amateur club, turned up late.
Some wondered if it was mind games, if the former champion was looking to stamp authority on this promotion early. The reason was, of course, nothing of the sort. He merely got caught in the notorious London traffic. And even if he was trying some kind of curious game play, it was wasted because Saturday night’s opponent, Daniel Dubois, had long left the Wembley Arena venue.
That venue was decorated to resemble Buckingham Palace and the ring fully kitted out to stage three professional contests that were to follow the workouts.
“There’s three fights happening here tonight, 10 out of 10, it feels good,” a noticeably relaxed Joshua said when asked about the setting. “The canvas feels good, the size [of the ring] is good, I feel like I’m standing here for my fight. If someone could wrap my hands, do my gloves, I could fight today.”
Joshua was then asked about his emotions. “There are no emotions,” he said, “I’m just here.”
Before saying a swift goodbye to those in attendance he revealed what he expected from the rest of Fight Week. “More media, more talking, more training most importantly, and walking to the ring in front of 96,000 people ready to show people my gladiatorial spirit,” he said.
Let’s hope he makes it to the venue on time.
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