ANTHONY JOSHUA has taken a swipe the critics picking fault with his performance against Joseph Parker.
Joshua went the distance for the first time in his professional career as he saw off Parker to become unified heavyweight champion.
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The 28-old added the WBO belt to his three titles as he saw off the unbeaten New Zealander with a measured display of boxing.
But his decision to work behind the job and not go looking for an explosive knock-out led to some doubting his quality at the highest level.
Tyson Fury labelled the two fighters a “pair of bums” in a damning verdict as he looks to work his way back up to the top.
And rival Deontay Wilder was equally dismissive, while social media was rife with boxing fans claiming Fury would easily beat Joshua.
But Joshua has defended himself from the sniping, claiming the way he fought was the perfect game-plan in the sport.
He tweeted: “Introducing you 2 the sweet science of boxing. Hit and don’t get hit.”
Introducing you 2 the sweet science of boxing
Hit & don't get hit
— Anthony Joshua (@anthonyfjoshua) April 1, 2018
The way Joshua fought came as a surprise to some and proved he is developing as a fighter every time he steps into the ring.
While the public were baying for a devastating knockout blow, he nullified the threat of Parker with a composed display which saw him well clear on the scorecards.
BEHIND THE ROPES Dickie Pelham’s best snaps from Cardiff capture blood, sweat and fireworks
Joshua said: “Strategy was sticking behind the jab, one of the most important weapons.
“The right hand can take you around the block, the jab can take you around the world.
“Anything that was coming, I was switched on and focused, 12 rounds. It was light work, it’s boxing, that’s what we do.
“Forget the hype, Parker is a world champ and I knew he was going to be determined.
“Parker said this will be a war. I said it will be finesse and I stuck to my words.”
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