International Boxing Hall of Famer and one of the biggest names to ever do it – Evander Holyfield has surprisingly backed up Andy Ruiz Jr. (33-1) to beat Anthony Joshua (22-1) in their upcoming rematch.
Evander Holyfield among eight to be inducted into International Boxing Hall of Fame https://t.co/yqo2LNXMzx pic.twitter.com/i0ZMmWmWI8
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As we all know, the American-Mexican boxer shocked the world on June 1 when he TKO’d the Brit, becoming the first ever Mexican world heavyweight champion.
Joshua’s team has now exercised an immediate rematch clause, but the date and the venue of the anticipated clash are yet to be announced.
“The heavyweight division is growing. With the fight we saw between Andy Ruiz and Anthony Joshua, it shows that when someone believes in himself, he can achieve what he sets out to do,” Holyfield told George Ebro.
“Everything will depend on Joshua. If he does not get used to the pressure, the same thing will be repeated in the second fight. Ruiz has to make the same kind of fight, stay on him all the time. Joshua was not in the best condition on the first occasion and he must prepare for that kind of pressure,” the American added.
“Trust comes from the mental. We all know that Joshua is a good fighter, who is strong, but that’s what happens when you apply pressure to a person. Pressure devours those who are not prepared to face it.”
As far as the outcome, Holyfield is backing for Ruiz to defend his belts.
“Yes, I do expect the same outcome, because Ruiz would fight in the same way. He has no fear, he takes risks, and those who take risks have more opportunities to win and become world champions,” Holyfield concludes.
