Anthony Joshua on Saturday night beat Jermaine Franklin by unanimois poin decision at O2 Arena London, England. The three judges scoring it 118-111, 117-111, and 117-111 in favour of the former heavyweight champion.
The British boxer launched 376 hits, with 117 hits on target – a rate of 31%. Franklin hit more when punching 426 hits, but only 58 hits correctly, reaching a 14% rate.
Joshua had 225 jabs, hit the target 57 times, reaching a 25% rate. While, this parameter of Franklin is 21 shots on target out of a total of 241 hits, reaching a rate of less than 10%.
But, Joshua also has 60 accurate heavy blows out of a total of 151 hits, reaching a rate of 40%. This parameter is twice that of Franklin – who only has 37 accurate heavy blows despite launching 185 attacks.
Joshua relieved the pressure after losing two matches in a row to Oleksandr Usyk and losing four heavyweight belts, including WBA (Super), WBO, IBF and IBO.
In September 2021, Joshua lost to Usyk by referee points in a defense of four heavyweight titles. In August 2022, Joshua continued to lose to the Ukrainian opponent and could not reclaim the championship belt.
“Last time I took the mic in the ring, it was a bit chaotic, but now I’m calm,” Joshua said after the match.
“Franklin played well and I respect him. I should have knocked Franklin out, but what can I say? The job is done, and I have to move on.” Joshua added.
Joshua has insisted to the media about his desire to face WBC champion Tyson Fury and goes off his haters.
The two fighters once negotiated to fight in the ring in December 2022, but the negotiation broke down and ended with a fierce battle of words.
Later, Fury wanted to fight for a unified heavyweight title fight with Usyk, but couldn’t come to an agreement.
“I wish I could come round and speak to every one of you. You know me, I try and provide for the fans so whatever the fans want, who the fans want, they said Fury?” Joshua said.
“Well the ball’s in his court. I 100 per cent would be honoured to compete for the WBC heavyweight championship of the world.” he added.
