Former two-time unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua showcased his unwavering determination to reclaim the division’s throne with a commanding performance against Swedish southpaw Otto Wallin. In a bout that left no doubt about Joshua’s resurgence, he secured a crushing five-round victory.
Wallin, known for his competitive showing against Tyson Fury in 2019, faced an uphill battle against the relentless Joshua. The opening bell set the tone as Joshua combined solid technical skill with an unyielding pursuit of victory. His right cross-left hook combination in the fifth round left Wallin marked up and damaged, prompting his corner to retire him on his stool.
The story of the fight unfolded against an intriguing backdrop. Joshua, accustomed to world championship contests from 2016 to 2022, found himself in a rare position: his third consecutive non-title bout. Victories over Jermaine Franklin and Robert Helenius earlier in the year fueled his hunger to climb back into championship contention.
Behind the scenes, Joshua’s representatives engaged in talks for a potential two-fight deal with Deontay Wilder in 2024. However, those plans were derailed when Joseph Parker upset Wilder with a wide unanimous decision win on the same bill in Riyadh.
Joshua’s focus remained unwavering. He unleashed a thumping backhand to Wallin’s stomach, followed by precise right crosses. Wallin’s southpaw stance failed to frustrate Joshua, who darted out of range and landed punishing blows. The fifth round saw Joshua’s near-total control, culminating in a ferocious two-punch combination that left Wallin reeling.
As the Swede staggered away, Joshua pressed the attack. Wallin’s coach wisely prevented him from returning for another round, acknowledging Joshua’s dominance. The victory was a testament to Joshua’s adaptability, having worked with a new trainer, Ben Davison, for this fight.
Reflecting on his performance, Joshua humbly deferred judgement to his performance team and fans. For him, it wasn’t a throwback fight; it was just another day in the office. His declaration remained clear: “All I want to be is victorious for as long as I can.”
The heavyweight division now awaits Joshua’s next move, while Wallin regroups after a valiant effort against a resurgent force in the boxing world.