Anthony Joshua vs Oleksandr Uzyk: The boxing world, Tyson Fury and Mike Tyson predict who will win the grudge rematch

ANTHONY JOSHUA is an underdog in his rematch against Oleksandr Usyk - both among his peers and the bookies.

This is a new position for AJ in his career. He will be defending his title in the Saudi Arabia rematch.

Oddsmakers place Usyk at 1/2 favorite to win after a disappointing defeat in September's 12 rounds.

It has shaped the opinions of boxing professionals as SunSport compiles predictions from fighters.

Tyson Fury

Fury has been linked to returning to fight the winner, but in a blow for British fans, he is choosing against AJ.

Gareth A Davies was told by him that he believed it took only one punch to win heavyweight boxing.

"It wasn’t a complete win last time. Usyk had many marks on his face and was badly bruised. It's easy to hit him, Usyk. He's right in front of your face.

Joshua can land big punches, but I think Usyk is too cute. Too smart, too fast, and a southpaw."

Prediction: Usyk

John Fury

Fury's father has done the opposite and Fury has a funny feeling Joshua could avenge her loss.

John stated on talkSPORT that AJ could pull it off.

"I have a sneaky feeling that AJ is going to do it again and he has this amazing way of bouncing right back, doesn't he?"

Prediction: Joshua

Mike Tyson

Although the youngest heavyweight champion in history did not make a prediction, AJ knows AJ is up for a challenge.

He stated on Instagram Live, "It's going to be difficult to beat him."

"It's going to be difficult to beat Usyk because, he's fast, and he outpunched Joshua using his jab.

"Joshua must learn how to deal with his jab."

Prediction: Sitting at the fence

Deontay Wilder

Former world champion was much more vocal in his opinion on the fight.

Wilder stated to EsNEWS, "I'm going along with Usyk man."

"I'm going to Usyk. Many people are. You know what I mean. It's boxing at night, so the rest of the world will be able to see.

"But my pick? Usyk."

Prediction: Usyk

Andy Ruiz Jr

Last time AJ was in a must win rematch, he defeated Andy Ruiz Jr in 12 rounds in Saudi - but Usyk can't get rid of the Mexican-American.

Fight Hub TV interviewed him and said that it only takes one punch to win a fight. It's up to the hungry one.

"Anthony Joshua falls and comes back up, or loses, then he fights again to win.

"Usyk is also a tough guy. His style is very unique. He loves to mix and match.

Prediction: Sitting at the fence

Joe Joyce

Joyce was Joshua's sparring partner. He lost to Usyk in amateurs. Joyce knows both men well.

TalkSPORT was informed by him that Usyk had already defeated Joshua. It's the same story again, and he has the confidence that he beat Joshua the first time.

Joshua must now step up his game and fight for those titles. I believe Usyk still has what it takes for him to be beaten up again.

Joshua still has a chance to punch, and a heavy punch. But if he fails to land big shots, then Usyk is back."

Prediction: Usyk

Amir Khan

Khan met Usyk in Dubai, and watched him in action. However, the 2004 Olympic silver medalist is still backing his countryman.

TalkSPORT was informed by him that AJ should win, and being British, he said: "We all want AJ's victory. We want them to have their heavyweight titles back in Britain.

"I believe he wins the fight. He beats Usyk. But it will be difficult.

"He then continues and may do an undisputed clash against Tyson Fury. This will be a huge fight in the UK."

Prediction: Joshua

Kell Brook

Brook beat Khan in February's grudge match, and it seems they are not on the same page.

Brook stated to Safe Betting Sites UK, "To be truthful with you, I see Usyk beating me again."

"Unless Anthony Joshua comes out, he puts it all on him from round one, and uses his strength and size.

"The only way Anthony Joshua can win, according to my opinion, is to use his strength, his power, and apply it to him in that manner."

Prediction: Usyk

KSI

Joshua is friends with the YouTube boxing star, having grown up together in Watford. However, Joshua's relationship does not affect his judgement.

DAZN was told by KSI: "Who do you think will win?" It's a horrible thing to say, but I believe Usyk. Sorry bro, but I believe Usyk is simply too skilled.

"He has too many amateur fights. His experience is just to good. His ability to adapt during fights is just too great.

"Especially when he was fighting Chisora."