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Anthony Joshua vs Jermaine Franklin: The Battle of the Heavyweights
Anthony Joshua is set to return to the ring this weekend in a highly anticipated bout against American fighter Jermaine Franklin. This will be Joshua’s first fight since his back-to-back losses to Oleksandr Usyk, and the former heavyweight champion will be looking to make a statement and get back to winning ways. Franklin, on the other hand, will be looking to build on his impressive performance against Dillian Whyte and stake his claim in the heavyweight division.
The fight will take place at the O2 Arena in London on Saturday, April 1, 2023. Fans can watch the fight on DAZN, with the undercard set to begin at 6 pm UK time and ring walks for the main fight expected at 10:30 pm.
Joshua, who has a record of 24-3 (22 KOs), is known for his powerful punches and impressive physique. He stands at 6’6’’ with an 82’’ reach and fights in an orthodox stance. Franklin, who goes by the nickname “989 Assassin,” has a record of 21-1 (14 KOs) and stands at 6’2’’ with a 77’’ reach. He also fights in an orthodox stance.
Both fighters have expressed confidence leading up to the fight. Joshua stated that he feels mentally and physically ready and wants to put on a show for his coach. Franklin, meanwhile, has vowed to shock the world and prove that it is his time to take his place at the top of the heavyweight division.
In addition to the main event, the fight card also includes some exciting matchups. Matteo Signani will face off against Felix Cash for the EBU European middleweight title, while Fabio Wardley will take on Michael Polite Coffie in a heavyweight bout. Other fights include Austin Williams vs River Wilson-Bent, Campbell Hatton vs Louis Fielding, John Hedges vs Daniel Bocianski, Ziyad Almaayouf vs TBA, Peter Kadiru vs TBA, and Juergen Uldedaj vs TBA.
The Betfred odds currently have Joshua as the overwhelming favorite, with odds of 1/12. Franklin is seen as the underdog, with odds of 6/1, while the draw has odds of 25/1.
Overall, the stage is set for an exciting night of boxing at the O2 Arena. Will Joshua make a triumphant return to the ring, or will Franklin pull off an upset and shock the world? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain – this is a battle of the heavyweights that you won’t want to miss.