The Backstory: A Rivalry Built on Rematches

Usyk and Joshua first met in September 2018, when the then-undefeated Ukrainian outboxed the Brit to claim the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, and IBO titles. Joshua avenged that loss in a rematch in 2019, but Usyk’s dominance in the trilogy’s final fight in 2021—where he dismantled Joshua over eight rounds—cemented his status as one of the greatest tactical fighters in history.

Fast-forward to today, and Joshua is chasing redemption once again, this time against Daniel Dubois. Dubois, known for his devastating knockout power, has been the mandatory challenger for Usyk’s undisputed titles. After knocking out Trevor Bryan in April 2024, Dubois earned his shot at the unified champion. But the fight took an unexpected turn when Dubois suffered a detached bicep during training, forcing a postponement and ultimately a new opponent: Anthony Joshua.

The matchup has drawn skepticism from some quarters. Joshua, now 34, is a former champion past his prime, while Usyk, 37, is a master technician pushing the limits of his physical prime. Yet, this fight carries a different weight. Usyk has repeatedly stated his desire to face the best, regardless of age or reputation. Joshua, meanwhile, is fighting for his legacy, knowing another loss could signal the end of his prime.

Styles Collide: What to Expect in the Ring

Usyk’s greatest weapon is his footwork. He moves in lateral and diagonal patterns, constantly shifting angles to disrupt his opponent’s rhythm. His jab is precise, and his ability to slip punches while countering makes him one of the most elusive fighters in history. Joshua, on the other hand, relies on his power and size. His jab is a key weapon, but his knockout ability—particularly his right hand—has defined his career.

In their first fight, Usyk neutralized Joshua’s power by staying on the outside, using lateral movement to avoid the Brit’s best shots. In the rematch, Joshua adjusted, cutting off the ring and using his jab more effectively. The trilogy’s finale saw Usyk dominate by staying disciplined, picking his shots, and avoiding Joshua’s power.

Against Dubois, Joshua showed flashes of his old self, particularly in his ability to close the distance and land big shots. But Dubois’ power forced Joshua to be more cautious. Against Usyk, that caution will be paramount. Usyk’s footwork and angles could make it difficult for Joshua to find openings, especially if he relies too much on his power.

Key Matchup: Footwork vs. Power

• Usyk’s Footwork: Expect him to circle away from Joshua’s power hand, using angles to create openings. His ability to pivot and change levels will force Joshua to adjust constantly.
• Joshua’s Power: Joshua’s best chance lies in cutting off the ring and landing a fight-ending right hand. However, Usyk’s movement could neutralize this advantage.
• Jab Battle: Both fighters rely on their jabs. Usyk’s jab is more technical, while Joshua’s is heavier. The fighter who controls the jab could dictate the pace of the fight.
• Body Work: Usyk has shown an improved body attack in recent years, particularly against Joshua in their trilogy. If he can weaken Joshua’s midsection, it could slow him down in the later rounds.

Psychological Warfare: Mind Games Before the Fight

The lead-up to this fight has been fraught with mind games. Usyk, ever the confident veteran, has downplayed Joshua’s power, stating that he respects his jab but isn’t afraid of his power. Joshua, meanwhile, has taken the bait, calling Usyk old and past his prime. These exchanges are classic Usyk—using Joshua’s emotions against him to force him into making mistakes.

Joshua’s camp has tried to counter this by emphasizing his youth and power advantage. Trainer Ben Davison has spoken about Joshua’s improved conditioning and focus, suggesting that he’s in the best shape of his career. However, Usyk’s ability to stay calm under pressure could nullify Joshua’s attempts at psychological dominance.

Another layer to the psychological battle is Joshua’s public persona. Once the face of British boxing, Joshua has faced criticism for his performances outside the ring, including his fashion ventures and business dealings. A loss to Usyk could further tarnish his reputation, while a victory could revive his legacy. For Usyk, it’s simpler: he’s fighting to cement his place as one of the greatest heavyweights ever.

Beyond the Fight: What’s at Stake?

The stakes for this fight extend far beyond the immediate result. For Usyk, a victory would solidify his claim as the undisputed heavyweight champion, a rare feat in modern boxing. It would also set up potential superfights against Deontay Wilder or even a long-awaited bout with Tyson Fury, though Fury’s retirement complicates that dream.

For Joshua, the stakes are even higher. A loss would likely signal the end of his prime and force him into a semi-retirement phase, similar to what Wladimir Klitschko experienced after his losses to Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. A victory, however, could rejuvenate his career and set up another shot at the undisputed title.

There’s also the question of what comes next for the heavyweight division. With Fury retired (for now) and Wilder’s future uncertain, Usyk’s dominance could make him the undisputed face of the division. Joshua, if he rediscovers his form, could still be a major player, but the window is closing.

Potential Outcomes and Their Implications

1. Usyk Wins by Decision: This would be the most likely outcome given Usyk’s history of outpointing Joshua. It would cement Usyk’s legacy and likely lead to a unification bout with Fury or Wilder.
2. Usyk Knocks Out Joshua: While possible, it’s unlikely given Usyk’s style and Joshua’s resilience. A knockout would be a statement win but could also raise questions about Joshua’s chin.
3. Joshua Wins by Decision: A long shot but not impossible if Joshua can control the pace and land big shots. It would set up a trilogy fight and give Joshua a claim to being the best heavyweight.
4. Joshua Knocks Out Usyk: Extremely unlikely given Usyk’s defensive mastery, but if it happens, it would be one of the biggest upsets in modern boxing.

Final Thoughts: A Fight Worth Watching

Usyk vs. Joshua III is more than just a rematch—it’s a culmination of careers, egos, and legacies. Usyk is fighting for history, Joshua for redemption. The contrast in styles ensures an intriguing chess match, with Usyk’s footwork likely to dictate the tempo. Joshua’s power remains a threat, but Usyk’s ability to neutralize it could be the difference.

Regardless of the outcome, this fight is a reminder of why boxing remains one of the most compelling sports in the world. It’s not just about strength or skill; it’s about heart, strategy, and the will to prove something to the world. For fans of the sport, this is a must-watch event, one that could define the next chapter of heavyweight boxing.

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