Anthony Joshua reflected on the hardest punch he’s ever taken, recalling a tough fight during the 2011 World Championships. In an interview with Men’s Health, Joshua recounted his experience facing Magomedrasul Majidov from Azerbaijan in the tournament’s final. Majidov, known for his knockout power, delivered a decisive blow that Joshua vividly remembers, describing the impact as “force meeting force.”

Joshua acknowledged his own inexperience at the time, noting that he made mistakes during the fight that led to him walking into Majidov’s punch. Despite the physical pain from the blow, Joshua also felt emotional anguish due to losing the match by just one point.

Majidov went on to achieve notable success in amateur boxing, winning gold medals at the World Championships in 2011, 2013, and 2017. He also earned a bronze medal at the 2012 Olympics in London, where Joshua clinched the gold.

In his professional career, Majidov made a transition under Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn in 2019, securing three victories by stoppage before suffering a knockout loss in 2021. Since then, he has not competed.

Joshua’s upcoming return to the ring against Daniel Dubois on September 21 promises to be another high-stakes encounter, highlighting his resilience and continued evolution as a heavyweight boxer.