Fansided

Anthony Joshua calls out Deontay Wilder after win over Joseph Parker

By Jeremy Herriges

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 29: Anthony Joshua reacts after knocking down Wladimir Klitschko in the IBF, WBA and IBO Heavyweight World Title bout at Wembley Stadium on April 29, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 29: Anthony Joshua reacts after knocking down Wladimir Klitschko in the IBF, WBA and IBO Heavyweight World Title bout at Wembley Stadium on April 29, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

Anthony Joshua defeated Joseph Parker by unanimous decision and called out Deontay Wilder during the post-fight interview.

Anthony Joshua (21-0, 20 KOs) added the WBO heavyweight title to his collection by outpointing Joseph Parker (24-1, 18 KOs). His performance during the fight was less than stellar, but his comments after the bout should have fight fans excited.

Joshua won the bout by unanimous decision. He didn’t seem eager to trade with Parker and didn’t display the aggressive style that he has shown in past matchups. Regardless, he continued his winning ways and owns every major heavyweight title except for the WBC belt held by Deontay Wilder.

After his bout with Parker, Joshua talked inside the ring with Sky Sports. When asked if he wants to become the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world Joshua responded, “One-hundred [percent].”

Joshua added:

"Twenty-one professional fights, six world championship fights, does that not show you what route I’m going in? Forget the hype. I’m not into that. Everyone here knows me better than that. I’m not into the hype. I’m about business, so let’s get the business done. Now I’ve got the time. If it takes my trainer, Eddie Hearn sitting down and discussing plans with Al Haymon, Shirley and see what the future holds, I’m down to ride for whenever and wherever."

Joshua’ comments seemed very explicit about his desire to fight Wilder under any circumstances. He was then asked directly if he wants the fight with Wilder. His response became even more pronounced.

“Just like Dillian [Whyte] said, ‘Wilder, let’s go baby! Let’s go!” shouted Joshua at the top of his lungs.

Joshua was playfully imitating Dillian Whyte’s callout of Wilder after beating Lucas Browne, but he was also issuing his own challenge.

Eddie Hearn, Joshua and Whyte’s promoter, has floated the idea of matching Whyte up against Wilder next, but it seems like Joshua has other plans. If we take Joshua at his word, he wants the next crack at Wilder.

A bout between Joshua and Wilder would by far be the biggest bout of the year. It would fully unify the heavyweight title and would be a blockbuster pay-per-view event. No other heavyweight matchup makes sense.

Next: Anthony Joshua defeats Joseph Parker in ugly fight

Now, it’s up to Eddie Hearn and Al Haymon (Wilder’s manager) to settle business matters to get this fight inked on paper. Hearn has cast doubt on this fight happening next, but he should listen to his fighter’s words and desires. Let’s go Eddie. Make Joshua vs. Wilder happen. It’s the fight that the fans want and deserve.

Home/Boxing