Joshua vs Breazeale: Anthony Joshua fine-tuning preparations
Wednesday 22 June 2016 09:38, UK
Anthony Joshua says he is treating the first defence of his IBF heavyweight title against Dominic Breazeale on Saturday like any other fight.
The 26-year-old takes on the American challenger at The O2, live on Sky Sports Box Office, but shrugged off any suggestion that defending the belt adds any pressure to the occasion.
Joshua (16-0-KO16) spoke to Sky Sports News HQ at a public media workout session at York Hall and, while most of the physical work is done, he said there is still a lot of mental preparation to do before he steps into the ring.
"There is still hard work in a weird way because, even if it is not physically draining, it is mentally because my coach expects a lot from me," he said.
"He wants me to step up the levels, he wants me to be sharp, so even though it is not physically draining, there is still a lot of mental preparation to do as well.
"It is what it is, it is just a fight. It's the same ring, referee and I've just got a different opponent in the corner and it was the same situation when I didn't have the IBF belt so that is what I'm saying about mental preparation - I've just got to chill out."
Asked how he was feeling with a few days to go, Joshua laughed and said: "Tired! It's been a long camp though, so just get my music on, chill out, get back to the hotel, get some food.
"Two last sessions Wednesday, a bit of media stuff, but mainly I'm out of the boxing gym and the next time I step foot in the ring after Wednesday will be to face my rival Dominic Breazeale."
Joshua received a great reception from fans at York Hall and said it was a special night of boxing to be a part of.
"Credit to all the promoters as well, they've done an unbelievable job putting on a great undercard. Some of my stablemates are fighting on there as well," he said.
"I just think it is a great time for boxing and I'm part of this atmosphere so I appreciate everyone coming out for myself as well."
Watch Joshua vs Breazeale live on Sky Sports Box Office, from The O2, on June 25, including Eubank Jr vs Doran, Groves vs Murray, Conor Benn and Dillian Whyte. Book the event via your Sky remote or online here.
