Anthony Joshua recruits Robert Garcia as coach ahead of Oleksandr Usyk rematch
The 47-year-old is a former IBF super-featherweight champion and was named trainer of the year in 2011
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Anthony Joshua has recruited trainer Robert Garcia as preparations continue for the Briton’s heavyweight title rematch with Oleksandr Usyk.
Joshua was comprehensively outpointed by Usyk in north London last September, losing the WBA, WBO, IBF and IBO belts in the process.
The pair are now set for a rematch, which is expected to take place in Saudi Arabia in July, and Joshua has made changes to his coaching set-up as he looks to construct a gameplan to hand Usyk the first defeat of the Ukrainian’s professional career.
“AJ” has been trained by Rob McCracken since his pro debut but suggested earlier this year that he had promoted Angel Fernandez to the position of head coach. McCracken, meanwhile, has taken a step back from Joshua’s team, though the former two-time champion said he still speaks to the 53-year-old trainer.
Now, however, Joshua has confirmed that he is working with Garcia – alongside Fernandez – ahead of the rematch with Usyk, 35.
“The main thing is: A happy fighter is a dangerous fighter. I’m in a good place,” said Joshua, 32, in an interview with iFL TV. “I’m good, I’m happy, I’m about to start training now.
“Garcia’s actually here now, we’re just working on a few things. It’s not about changing style as such, in my opinion. Garcia’s style might be to crouch down to 5’0 and bob and weave, but I’m a 6’6” heavyweight.
“So, it’s not about style, it’s about his experience and what he knows at championship level; adding that to the camp is priceless in my opinion.”
The 47-year-old Garcia is a former IBF super-featherweight champion and was named trainer of the year in 2011.
The American, who is known for his strategic acumen, has coached his brother Mikey as well as numerous other world champions.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments