Anthony Joshua vs. Wladimir Klitschko: 5 keys to the fight

Punch resistance

If there’s one virtual certainty about Joshua-Klitschko, it’s that the fight will end early. Joshua, against admittedly limited foes, has knocked out every opponent he’s faced, while Klitschko is firmly established as one of the sport’s best pure punchers, particularly with his vaunted right hand and left hook.

Over the course of his distinguished career and lengthy title reign, Klitschko still hasn’t been able to escape lingering concerns about his punch resistance, and Joshua, in his sternest test to date against bitter amateur rival Dillian Whyte, was buckled.

These vulnerabilities, combined with the punching prowess of both men, imbues Joshua-Klitschko with almost unbearable suspense, as the fight could quite literally come down to who is able to land the first flush power shot. Because of the massive stakes and respect both boxers have for one another, expect a cagey start and low punch output, which only increases the chance of either tension-addled man getting caught cold.

Obviously Klitschko’s experience grounded in technical precision and Joshua’s athleticism and skills should allow them to intelligently absorb punches, but at some point the fight will open up — even that only means a committed one-two combination. The point is that when either Joshua or Klitschko sit down on their punches, they can put anyone to sleep. And it stands to reason that the slightest hint of vulnerability will lead to an early night.