Anthony Joshua Joshua admits that he needs Tyson Fury to help him cement his legacy as a great fighter.
Fury, 33, missed his contractual obligation to fight a tri-fight with Deontay wilder in a summer undisputed match. He now faces Deontay Wilder on October 9.
Joshua insists that he must fight Fury
31-year-old AJ was furious at being led on about the largest fight in British boxing's history. Instead, he will be facing a more lucrative and dangerous defense against Oleksandr Uzyk on September 25.
The WBA, IBF, and WBO king know that a match with the unbeaten WBC champion is all that will cement his claim as one of the greatest heavyweights in history.
AJ said to the BBC, "Fight good fighters and you bring out your best." It is essential for boxing.
It is difficult to train camp. It is difficult to improve in boxing. It is difficult to fight Tyson Fury.
"I will put the pressure on myself to get better. It's what we all require, it's what I need. Let's not be afraid to show off my skills.
"Let's see what I can do during this time. It will be a great mental challenge. It's not about him. I want to succeed.
"Even though I get up early in the morning and my body is tired and battered, I still go to work every day. It's a great reward and Fury is the only person who can give it to me.
AJ started boxing in November 2008, and was the Olympic champion for London 2012.
Watford's ace, 6ft 6in tall, made him an Adonis-like boxer. However, he started his career relatively late in life at age 18, so he is constantly playing catch up.
A quick glance back at his 2013 pro debut reveals that his only regret is not having picked up the gloves sooner.
He said, "When I watched my first fight against Emanuele Leo I was so bad." "I wish that I had started earlier, I would have been much more successful."
"If I had started in 2000, then by 2010, I'd have been much better.
"And when my professional journey began, I was able to become the man that I am today in three years."
"I would have been more skilled, more experienced."
