Analyzing the Factors Behind Anthony Joshua's Defeats Against Oleksandr Usyk

Anthony Joshua faced Oleksandr Usyk in two televised high-profile boxing matches in 2021 and 2022, with both resulting in losses for Joshua. This article delves into the critical factors contributing to these outcomes and the lessons that can be learned from Joshua's performance.

Usyk's Technical Skill

Oleksandr Usyk is renowned for his exceptional boxing skills, including superior footwork and advanced ring IQ. These attributes allowed Usyk to effectively control the pace and distance of the fights, making it challenging for Joshua to land significant blows.

Joshua's Strategy

Joshua's strategy in both matches was less than effective. In the first fight, he was overly cautious and failed to engage adequately with Usyk. In the second rematch, Joshua attempted a more aggressive approach but failed to capitalize on his size and power advantages. The inability to implement a solid game plan contributed significantly to his defeats.

Conditioning and Stamina

Usyk's superior conditioning allowed him to maintain a high work rate throughout the entire bout, showing incredible stamina. In contrast, Joshua seemed to tire as the fights progressed, leading to a diminished effectiveness in the latter rounds. This fatigue played a crucial role in Usyk taking control during the later stages of the matches.

Mental and Emotional Factors

Joshua entered both fights under substantial pressure, being a former unified heavyweight champion. The mental burden of high expectations may have impacted his performance, especially in the rematch where he exhibited signs of frustration and confusion during the fight. This emotional turmoil could have detracted from his mental resilience, a critical factor in elite boxing.

Usyk's Experience

Usyk's extensive experience as a former undisputed cruiserweight champion contributed significantly to his success. His ability to adapt and make key adjustments during the fights played a crucial role in his victories over Joshua. This experience highlights the importance of having a wealth of high-stakes fight experience in professional boxing.

The case of Anthony Joshua against Oleksandr Usyk underscores the critical elements of strategy adaptability and mental resilience. While Joshua is big and powerful, he has struggled to use these attributes effectively. Until Joshua develops a more refined skillset, it is unlikely he will be able to overcome Usyk.

Despite his size, Douglas 'AJ' Stewart has not been able to impose his will on Usyk. Professional fighters have pointed out that Joshua never fully developed the necessary skillset to climb to the next level. Until he does, Joshua likely will never beat Usyk. Outboxing Usyk is not a viable strategy; Joshua must engage in a more intense, slug-it-out match with the smaller man. This has been his inability to do so, speaking to the true level of his boxing prowess.