Anthony Joshua Publicly Backs Oleksandr Usyk Ahead of Usyk vs. Parker Fight

The world of heavyweight boxing is never short of surprises. From shocking knockouts to unexpected alliances, the sport thrives on twists and rivalries. But one of the most intriguing headlines leading up to Oleksandr Usyk’s upcoming fight against Joseph Parker is the unexpected support from former rival Anthony Joshua.

Yes, you read that right. Anthony Joshua, the man who lost his unified heavyweight titles to Usyk—twice—has publicly thrown his support behind the Ukrainian champion. But why? What does Joshua see in Usyk that makes him back his former opponent instead of a fellow heavyweight like Parker?

Is this simply respect between warriors? Or is there a deeper, more strategic game at play?

With Usyk vs. Parker set to be a crucial fight in the heavyweight division, Joshua’s endorsement adds a layer of mystery to an already fascinating matchup. Could this be the beginning of a new alliance, a psychological game, or something more cryptic behind the scenes?

Let’s break it down.

Anthony Joshua and Oleksandr Usyk: From Rivals to Unexpected Allies?

The Rivalry That Shaped the Heavyweight Division

Before diving into Joshua’s support for Usyk, we need to revisit the epic battles that shaped their relationship.

• In September 2021, Oleksandr Usyk stunned the boxing world by defeating Anthony Joshua in London, outclassing him over 12 rounds to become the unified WBA, WBO, and IBF heavyweight champion.

• In August 2022, Joshua tried to reclaim his throne in a high-stakes rematch in Saudi Arabia. But once again, Usyk outmaneuvered him, securing back-to-back victories over the British superstar.

Losing to the same opponent twice—especially when world titles are on the line—can often lead to resentment. However, Joshua has consistently shown respect toward Usyk, even after those painful losses.

Instead of bitterness, there’s been an undeniable admiration between them. Joshua has praised Usyk’s skill, intelligence, and warrior mentality, calling him one of the best boxers of this generation.

But does respect alone explain why Joshua is publicly backing his former conqueror ahead of Usyk’s fight with Joseph Parker? Or is there something more strategic behind this move?

The Parker Factor: Why Joshua Isn’t Supporting Him Instead

A Familiar Face in the Heavyweight Scene

Joseph Parker is no stranger to the heavyweight elite. A former WBO champion, Parker has shared the ring with some of the division’s biggest names—including Anthony Joshua himself.

In March 2018, Parker faced Joshua in a heavyweight unification bout. While he put up a valiant effort, he lost via unanimous decision, surrendering his WBO title to the British superstar.

Since then, Parker has rebuilt himself, securing notable wins and positioning himself as a legitimate contender once again.

So why wouldn’t Joshua back Parker, a fighter he’s already defeated, over Usyk, the man who took everything from him?

The answer might be more calculated than it seems.

Why Joshua Might Want Usyk to Win

1. A Potential Trilogy Fight with Usyk?

Joshua has never been the type to walk away from a challenge. Losing to Usyk twice doesn’t necessarily mean he’s closed the door on a third fight.

If Usyk defeats Parker and continues holding onto the unified titles, there’s always a chance that Joshua could work his way back up to challenge him again. A trilogy fight would be massive, offering Joshua an opportunity to finally solve the Usyk puzzle.

By supporting Usyk, Joshua might be playing the long game, keeping the narrative alive for a future blockbuster showdown.

2. Keeping Usyk at the Top Protects Joshua’s Legacy

Think about it—if Parker were to defeat Usyk, it could diminish Joshua’s standing in the heavyweight hierarchy.

A Parker victory would suggest that the man who dominated Joshua twice was now beatable by a different opponent, potentially making Joshua’s losses look worse in hindsight.

But if Usyk remains dominant, it keeps Joshua’s defeats less damaging to his legacy. Losing to an undefeated, dominant champion is far less concerning than losing to someone who is suddenly vulnerable to other top contenders.

3. A Silent Statement Against Tyson Fury?

The boxing world has been waiting for years for a showdown between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. But with multiple failed negotiations and back-and-forth insults, it seems like the fight may never happen.

However, Usyk is currently set to face Fury for the undisputed heavyweight championship. If Usyk wins that fight and cements himself as the true king of the division, Joshua’s losses to Usyk could be recontextualized—not as weaknesses, but as proof that he simply faced the best heavyweight of this era.

In a way, Joshua backing Usyk could be his way of silently rooting against Fury without making it too obvious.

Could Joshua and Usyk Form an Alliance?

Boxing is an individual sport, but alliances do exist—especially when it comes to training camps, sparring partnerships, and mutual respect between fighters.

With Joshua now training under Ben Davison, a coach known for his strategic approach, it wouldn’t be surprising if Joshua and Usyk eventually cross paths again—not as opponents, but as allies.

Could Joshua be setting up a future sparring partnership with Usyk? Could he even be considering a shift in fighting style inspired by Usyk’s technical brilliance?

Nothing in boxing is ever truly impossible.

Is Joshua’s Support for Usyk Personal or Tactical?

At first glance, Joshua’s public backing of Usyk may seem like a simple act of respect. After all, the two warriors have already shared 24 rounds of battle, so admiration is understandable.

But when you dig deeper, Joshua’s endorsement could be more strategic than sentimental.

• Backing Usyk keeps the door open for a trilogy fight.

• It protects Joshua’s legacy by ensuring his losses were to an unbeatable champion.

• It subtly weakens Tyson Fury’s status if Usyk emerges as the undisputed king.

Whatever Joshua’s true motivations may be, one thing is clear—his public support for Usyk has made the Usyk vs. Parker fight even more intriguing.

Will Usyk prove his dominance once again? Or will Parker pull off a massive upset and reshape the entire heavyweight division?

And most importantly—where does Anthony Joshua fit into all of this?

One thing is certain: the heavyweight chessboard is shifting, and Joshua just made his move.

The next question is—what happens next?