Anthony Joshua reveals the boxer with the most devastating punch he ever suffered: “I will never forget”

Anthony Joshua, known for his dominating presence in the boxing ring, has faced numerous challenges throughout his career, both in the professional and amateur circuits.

In his early professional career, Joshua was more accustomed to dishing out punishment than receiving it. However, his fifteenth fight against Dillian Whyte for the British title marked a pivotal moment. Joshua was rocked but managed to rally and secure a decisive victory. This resilience was tested further in a memorable bout against Wladimir Klitschko, where Joshua experienced his first knockdown, prompting him to adopt a more cautious fighting style.

A significant setback came in 2019 with a stoppage loss to Andy Ruiz Jr., highlighting a moment when ‘AJ’ was seriously hurt. More recently, his bouts with Oleksandr Usyk showcased Joshua enduring sustained and accurate opposition.

Yet, it was in the amateur ranks where Joshua recalls facing his toughest challenge. Reflecting on the 2011 World Championships, Joshua vividly remembers his final bout against Magomedrasul Majidov from Azerbaijan. Majidov, who had knocked out all contenders en route to the final, engaged Joshua in a fierce battle. Despite Joshua’s inexperience and some tactical errors, Majidov’s strength and a powerful punch left an indelible mark.

“I remember that tough fight in 2011,” Joshua recounted in a feature with Men’s Health. “We had a real tear-up, and he was so strong. I made some silly mistakes and walked into one of his punches. Boom! I’ll never forget that punch. I lost by one point. So there was emotional pain and physical pain.”

Majidov went on to achieve success in the amateur and professional ranks, winning medals at the Olympics and continuing his career under Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn.

Looking ahead, Joshua prepares to return to the ring on September 21 against the formidable Daniel Dubois, a matchup eagerly anticipated in the boxing world. As ‘AJ’ navigates the highs and lows of his career, each challenge serves as a testament to his resilience and determination to excel in the sport he loves.