Joshua vows to ‘persevere through negativity’

Few boxers challenge for a world title within their first 20 professional fights. Even fewer emulate Anthony Joshua and unify a division after only 19, writes dailymail.co.uk.

That exceptional achievement brings with it extraordinary levels of pressure and criticism. On Saturday night, Joshua will again step into the glare of the bright lights and put his belts and reputation on the line.

The IBF and WBA world heavyweight champion takes on Carlos Takam in front of more than 70,000 fans in Cardiff. And ahead of the showdown, the Briton returned to his first boxing gym to ‘smash his critics’.

Takam, who has won 35 of his 39 professional fights, was a late replacement for Kubrat Pulev.In the film posted online, Joshua can be seen sitting in the changing rooms of Finchley Boxing Club, where he first donned the gloves aged 18 in 2008.

As he wraps his hands, the heavyweight king is seen facing accusations that he has a weak chin and is unable to handle the pressure of top-level boxing.

But, like he did in beating Wladimir Klitschko at Wembley in April, Joshua is seen overcoming adversity with his fists.“Throughout our lives, everyone will come up against some form of criticism – I certainly have both outside and inside the ring,’ Joshua said about the film. “I believe it’s so important to persevere through negativity and to stay focused on yourself and your goals.”