By Daily Sports on November 22, 2019

Briton Anthony Joshua said his first career defeat at the hands of Andy Ruiz Jr. was due to a lack of experience and he had become a “smarter” fighter ahead of December’s rematch.

Mexican-American Ruiz produced one of boxing’s biggest upsets when he dethroned the previously undefeated world heavyweight champion with a seventh-round stoppage at New York’s Madison Square Garden in June.

“It wasn’t burnout. The issues I faced in the last camp, it’s just down to lack of experience,” he told BBC.

“Even though it was at a high level, we were still finding experience.

“Andy Ruiz is good but I don’t think he should beat me twice. I used to hear guys say you have to take a loss and I would think ‘why’?

“Now I can understand it and know what it takes. I have more understanding now and my ears are open to new information so that’s making me smarter as a fighter,” Joshua said.

The WBA, IBF and WBO heavyweight title rematch – dubbed the ‘Clash on the Dunes’, will take place in Saudi Arabia on Dec. 7 after former Olympic Champion Joshua triggered a rematch clause.

“The blessing is I have a second chance and here we are,” the 30-year-old said. (BBC)

•PHOTO: Anthony Joshua

Source Daily Sports

Posted November 22, 2019

Bent Slams Aubameyang For Poor Form After New...

Why our football is at lowest level –...

AFCON: Akwa Ibom FA Chairman Ibah Tips Super...

Djokovic, Nadal set for showdown in Italian Open...

Tornadoes hold Go Round to extend unbeaten streak...

UEFA vows to be tough on clubs in...