Andy Ruiz defeat made me ‘mentally strong’, says Anthony Joshua

Anthony Joshua insists his shock defeat by Andy Ruiz has forged the mindset that will enable him to become a three-time world heavyweight champion at Wembley on Saturday.

Joshua challenges for Daniel Dubois’ IBF belt knowing victory would complete a period of rebuilding after losses to Ruiz in 2019 and then twice to Oleksandr Usyk left his career on the brink.

Now riding a five-fight winning streak, the 34-year-old from Watford views the seismic upset in New York as a seminal moment.

“I became mentally strong when everyone went against me after Ruiz,” said Joshua, who was floored four times before being stopped in the seventh round by the fleshy Mexican-American.

“You build up a firm back, a firm chest, strong legs and you walk through it. You walk through walls and you keep proving people wrong.”

Joshua is expected to join greats Muhammad Ali, Lennox Lewis and Evander Holyfield by winning a world title for the third time in front of a 96,000 crowd, who will watch Oasis’ Liam Gallagher perform live before the main event.

Dubois has the punching power to deny Joshua his dream of facing the winner of Usyk’s rematch with Tyson Fury in December, but has proved too easy to hit with the right hand – Joshua’s most devastating shot.

Factor in Joshua’s greater experience – which includes seven appearances at major stadiums – as well as his development under new trainer Ben Davison, and he is regarded as a clear favourite.

A post shared by @anthonyjoshua

“It’s a blessing to be back. What can I say? I don’t even know how it’s come about or why, but I’m the man of the moment and I’m living in it, making the most of it,” he said.

“It’s a blessing but I’m also here to do a job. I’ve got to go out there and win. I’m ready to rumble