Joshua vs Klitschko: Gerald Washington 'would love' Anthony Joshua training, but chose Wladimir Klitschko camp
Wednesday 12 April 2017 23:04, UK
Gerald Washington chose to join Wladimir Klitschko’s training camp despite an offer to help prepare Anthony Joshua, he has claimed.
Joshua and Klitschko's world heavyweight title fight, live on Sky Sports Box Office on April 29, is fast approaching and both men have been surrounding themselves with the best possible training partners.
Washington (18-1-1), a former world title challenger, opted to spar Klitschko instead of sharing a gym with Joshua.
"They asked me to come, and I would love to work with [Joshua] also, but I wanted to be around someone who has had longevity like the long-time champion," Washington exclusively told Sky Sports.
"I want to gain that experience. I want to be around a guy that has worked with great trainers like Emanuel Steward and Johnathon Banks.
I would love to work with [Joshua] also, but I wanted to be around someone who has had longevity like the long-time champion.
"It's great to be around such a great champion like Wladimir, who's been doing it for such a long time. You can feel the knowledge that is floating around and I'm trying to absorb as much as I can.
"We have a morning workout, then sparring in the evenings. Wladimir looks very good - he's fast and mobile, and he's putting together a great game-plan.
"He's a great guy - you can see the level of professionalism that he brings to the table. It's refreshing to see a classy guy. I always learn from guys who have been there before, and have walked that path.
"I have a lot of things to learn, and that's why this training camp with Klitschko is so vital to me. I can get the experience behind-the-scenes and continue to grow. I want to go to other camps, and be around guys that can help me grow, because I've got a taste for it."
Washington, who lost for the first time in a recent attempt to take Deontay Wilder's WBC title, has been charged with emulating Joshua for Klitschko's benefit. Malik Scott has also been part of the camp.
Joshua, in turn, has brought veteran Mariusz Wach and Rio 2016 silver medallist Joe Joyce into his gym.
Sky Sports Box Office will show Joshua v Klitschko exclusively live on 29 April. Book now!
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