Anthony Joshua explained why he did not hit the pads in his open workout ahead of his fight with Francis Ngannou.
Working with coach Ben Davison, Joshua appeared in his best form in years when he beat Otto Wallin at the tail-end of 2023 in Saudi Arabia.
He fights in the Kingdom once more this weekend, when he takes on Ngannou on Friday, March 8, live on DAZN PPV.
Joshua, a two-time world champion, is the favourite up against former UFC heavyweight champion Ngannou, but there is some doubt given the latter’s impressive performance in a split-decision defeat to Fury back in October.
In a recent open workout, Joshua decided instead of focusing on padwork that he would give local fighters the chance to shadow box with him.
He explained his decision to Sky Sports, saying: "It's a great chance for me to let other people use the platform that I've created to express themselves and their talent.
"I know how much the people of Saudi are embracing boxing and health in general.
“I gave them a chance to get on TV and hopefully their parents will see and it will boost their morale.
"I'm here to fight, I wasn't acknowledging [the fans] with all due respect, I'm here to fight. This is my life. Talk is cheap."
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