Anthony Joshua willing to fight in MMA ‘if people want it’ as heavyweight champ reveals people in US mistake him for basketball star


ANTHONY JOSHUA is considering a sensational switch into MMA.

But the WBA, IBF and WBO world heavyweight champion, 28, will only swap the ring for the octagon if his heart tells him to.

Anthony Joshua insists he could make a sensational switch to MMA
Anthony Joshua insists he could make a sensational switch to MMA
YoutTube/TeamCoco

Joshua, speaking to US talk show host Conan O’Brien, said: “It’s not just about the money. If people wanted it, and I felt in my heart it was the right decision, why not? It’s just another fight.

“I’d have to train, I wouldn’t just do it for a pay cheque because this combat sport is serious – concussions in the head and broken ribs.

“I’d have to take it serious.

“Why make the money if you can’t enjoy it? I would consider it if my heart told me it was the right thing for me.”

Anthony Joshua speaks to American talk show host Conan O'Brien
Anthony Joshua speaks to American talk show host Conan O’Brien
YoutTube/TeamCoco
Anthony Joshua saw off Joseph Parker in his last fight
Anthony Joshua saw off Joseph Parker in his last fight
News Group Newspapers Ltd
Anthony Joshua is one belt away from total world domination
Anthony Joshua is one belt away from total world domination
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Joshua’s fame and reported £43million fortune has been made through boxing.

The Brit won gold at the London 2012 Olympics before going on to claim the WBA, IBF and WBO belts as a pro.

A title unification showdown against American Deontay Wilder – who holds the WBC strap – could be his next fight.

But should the pair collide, fans in the States may need to Google Joshua to find out who he is.

Joshua, who was courtside at a Golden State Warriors game this week, explained: “They think I’m a basketballer or I play NFL or something like that.

“Sometimes we play along to it, I just tell them, ‘I tore my ACL right now’.

“But some people, if you’re into boxing you’ll know because the heavyweight championship of the world title is well renowned.

“It’s a big title to have and I’ve captured it and we’re trying to secure the last one.

“It’s something that can add to the legacy and it’ll do well for the sport of boxing as well.”


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