Robert Garcia: Anthony Joshua will ‘walk out with those belts’ after Oleksandr Usyk rematch

Trainer Robert Garcia says Anthony Joshua is ready for the challenge he faces Saturday in Saudi Arabia.

Joshua will face Oleksandr Usyk a second time after losing a unanimous decision and his three heavyweight belts to the talented Ukrainian last September in London.

And Garcia, the veteran mentor, will be in Joshua’s corner for the first time. He replaced Rob McCracken in August after agreeing to work with Joshua in England alongside Angel Fernandez.

Garcia feels good about his protégé’s chances of turning the tables on Usyk (19-0, 13 KOs).

“The team did their job, Angel Fernandez, myself and the rest of the team,” he said at the final news conference before the fight. “The champion did what he was supposed to do. We’re ready, we’re ready to do it. It was a challenge coming off a loss and getting him to do the game plan and do it in training.

“At the end, the job was done. Anthony followed instructions. On Saturday night we’re going to walk out with those belts. I think he’s peaked at the right moment. This week has been pretty easy for him. He’s happy and he’s smiling with everybody. He doesn’t have any problems.

“That’s a good sign that things are going the right way. Training camp was awesome, sparring partners did a great job. We’re ready to bring those belts back home.”

Joshua (24-2, 22 KOs) echoed Garcia’s sentiments. He’s confident he’ll become a three-time heavyweight titleholder.

“It’s a ‘must-win’ fight. Preparations have been tough, but I like the pressure. Robert Garcia, Angel Fernandez, members of my previous team as well; they’ve been pushing me, challenging me, ensuring I stay focused, and positioning me to get the job done and emerge victorious come Saturday night.

“This is what competition is all about; setting goals I want to achieve and being disciplined enough to follow them through. That’s competition with myself. As you mentioned with the belts, they mean something but that’s all at the end of the target. It’s not like I’m skipping the process. I’m focused on the process.

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“I’m looking forward to it. I want to compete. I’m looking forward to it. I can’t really say much else but you’ve got to have a competitive spirit. I’m prepared to do whatever it takes and I’m looking forward to competing this weekend.”

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Story originally appeared on Boxing Junkie