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Boxing

Anthony Joshua: I have put myself on the edge to beat Oleksandr Usyk

Alexander Netherton
Anthony Joshua: I have put myself on the edge to beat Oleksandr UsykDAZN
The three-belt champion is putting in the hours ahead of the weekend's clash.

Anthony Joshua has described the lengths he has gone to in order to prepare for his title defence against Oleksandr Usyk.

The 31-year-old Briton will put his IBF, WBA and WBO belts on the line against the Ukrainian at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on September 25.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Joshua said: "Deep practice is where I put myself on the edge, where I am vulnerable, so I can improve.

"I don't always want to be the best in the gym.

"Every time I spar, I spar like I'm performing. I have had tough spars. I am doubting myself.

"Throughout this training camp with southpaws I have practised, practised, practised. I am comfortable where my development is."

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Joshua is not expecting anything different from Usyk despite his cruiserweight history, explaining: "All boxers can move up in weight. Some feel better at the higher weight, they carry more power and feel fresher.

"In my mind, I have removed the conversation that he is a cruiserweight.

"I get it. But I like to challenge myself. So I move it out of the way. Let's look at where I'm at skillswise and technique-wise. I've got what I already have - the strength.

"Since I came into boxing in 2008 I had a rapid rise, maybe due to sheer strength, size, heart. I took on massive challenges early on.

"Usyk is another great champion, great fighter. But I don't really fold under pressure.

"This is fun. This is deep practice. When I get into the ring it's time to practise everything I know.

"I'm rather experienced now. You have to go through trials and tribulations."