What implications does this bout hold for Anthony Joshua’s legacy?

This question has sparked numerous discussions with colleagues, friends, and even a stranger I met on a train recently, as we anticipate this pivotal fight.

Anthony Joshua stands as one of the preeminent heavyweight boxers of his era, and I firmly stand by this assertion. Admittedly, his recent performances and outcomes have been less than stellar, but before facing Oleksandr Usyk, Joshua was undoubtedly the dominant force in the heavyweight sphere.

Now, he finds himself on a different stage, squaring off against an opponent who began boxing casually in 2018.

The stakes are high for Joshua, who must deliver a decisive early knockout to maintain his esteem in the sport. Any delay beyond the first round will likely draw significant criticism.

In addressing the question at hand: Regardless of the outcome, Joshua’s standing in the boxing world is likely to undergo a transformation.

But will he care? Probably not, he is making A LOT of money.