Anthony Joshua is’ brave’ for taking Usyk rematch as rival has an ‘extra push’ after being on the frontlines in Ukraine

ANTHONY JOSHUA is being tremendously “brave” by going straight into a rematch with Oleksandr Usyk.

AJ was turned over by the slick southpaw in their Tottenham tussle last September and lost his grip on the unified heavyweight titles.

Anthony Joshua will renew his rivalry with Oleksandr Usyk in June

AJ was turned over by the slick southpaw in their Tottenham tussle last September

And Spencer Oliver has praised the former champ for going straight into the rematch

The Watford warrior has opted against taking a warm-up fight in preparation for the crafty cruiserweight legend, a decision Spencer Oliver reckons is a mighty risky one.

He told Pro Boxing Fans: “It’s a brave move by Anthony Joshua. I spoke to him about that anyways. He said it’s a fight he ,’needs to do’ for himself.

“And it’s a fight that he needs to get out there and go and right the wrongs.

“So you’ve got to respect him for that, for taking that decision to go back into that rematch with Oleksandr Usyk.”

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Usyk, 35, was recently given permission to leave the frontlines in Ukraine in order to prepare for the maiden defence of his heavyweight titles.

And Oliver believes his motivation and drive will be the highest they’ve ever been.

He said: “For Usyk, obviously, he’s going to be fighting for different reasons now.

“He’s been released from the war that’s going [on] out there.

“With this tragedy that’s going on with Ukraine.

“And he’ll be fighting with an extra strength because he’ll be fighting for his people.

“And I think with what’s going on with the world right now, I think that’s going to give him an extra push.

“So it’s a tough night for Anthony Joshua. But he’s my boy and I want Anthony Joshua to win.

“But Oleksandr Usyk, he’s gone into training now and the fight is happening.

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“It’s a tough fight, but one we’re really looking forward to.”

Joshua’s second dance with Usyk is on course to take place in Saudi Arabia on June 25, although the finishing touches are still being put on the deal.

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