Anthony Joshua insists that he still has a friendship with Rob McCracken, even though he was brutally expelled from the team after Usyk defeat

ANTHONY JOSHUA claims that he and Rob McCracken, their former coach, are still in good terms despite the split.

After Oleksandr Usyk's lopsided points defeat last September, the Watford fighter quit his long-time trainer and has since been handed over to Robert Garcia, a decorated American coach.

McCracken was a mentor to AJ at London 2012. AJ, 32, did not take McCracken's decision to leave him lightly. He still holds the greatest respect for McCracken.

He stated that he would like to thank Rob McCracken, the former coach, and all of the team members up there. I respect Rob and all that we have achieved together, so there is no love lost.

"But, I must make some important decisions for myself too.

"Yeah it's different, it's something new, but it's the same goal: to win a fight. To look at your opponent, take something from them, a little of their spirit when you're there in the ring.

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Joshua searched for a coach on a trip to America last fall, but chose 14-time world champion coach Garcia following two secret training sessions in the UK.

The two-time champion at unified heavyweight said that Robert Garcia was a good man. Right after the [first] fight, I spent some time in America.

"It was something I should have done earlier in my career. Young fighters: Get out there and travel to the States.

Robert Garcia has done a great job of bridging out.

Joshua believes the lessons he learned during his time in school at the hands Usyk and Garcia will help him win the Saudi showdown.

He replied, "Um...I could say that. But I didn't win last time."

"But 12 rounds in a bank is good, good footage, but every fight differs.

"Regardless of how many videos or staredowns you've seen, and no matter how many press conferences, the ring is completely different.

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"Twelve rounds are good, but it's not possible to take too much from it. You have to live in the present; the past is past.

"I look forward to competing round after round. It should take me to KO if I keep my A, Bs, and Cs.