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Joshua says that he is not an easy fighter - Joshua looks forward to Usyk's fight
Anthony Joshua v Oleksandr Uzyk Venue: Tottenham Hotspur stadium Date: Saturday 25 September Coverage : Commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live, live text coverage on BBC Sport's website & app
Anthony Joshua said he would fight King Kong if asked, as he prepares for Oleksandr Usyk's bout at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
On Saturday, the WBA (Super), WBO, and IBF champions defend their titles against Usyk, a former cruiserweight champion.
Today's cordial press conference was followed by an intense face-off, which culminated in a handshake.
Joshua, 31, stated that he is not an easy fighter, but that he enjoys fighting.
He said, "If you told me that I was fighting King Kong, I would try it." This is my job.
"I didn't stay on the amateur scene for long enough to be familiar with Oleksandr. But, when I became a professional I did extensive research and fell in love with the Ukrainian culture and people.
"He had been fighting for 10 to 12 years as an amateur fighter before he was able to go to the Olympics or worlds. He is likely happy to be here. The best always rises to top.
"I love throwback fighters. I watch a lot boxing, but I don't fight people who are good just to gain respect. I will work. It's one of the most important days in my life."
Ukrainian Usyk (34 years old) was the first to arrive. He arrived dressed in a yellow tie and a three-piece suit in red.
Joshua was not far behind, and the two of them exchanged friendly hellos.
Although Usyk spoke through a translator, he said little but seemed relaxed and confident ahead of his bid for two-weight world champion status after dominating the cruiserweight category.
He stated that "Every fight is history" and that he believed Anthony and me would make another historic step. This will be something people will talk about, remember, and watch on television.
Joshua, in his tracksuit and cap, sported a calm figure until it was his turn.
With more than 60.000 people expected to attend the UK's first major stadium fight since the Covid-19 pandemic, he is the favourite.
Although the Watford-born fighter is keen to fight WBC champion Tyson Fury, Usyk was warned.
Joshua said, "I put in a lot of effort to ensure boxing is respected.
"God has blessed and shown me the way to boxing. It's a blessing and a joy to be here. This is my passion.
There was drama at the undercard press conference when Florian Marku and Maxim Prodan, the defending IBF international Welterweight champion, clashed.
Marku was briefly removed to the table after he got up from his seat. Prodan then shoved Marku during a heated head–to-head confrontation.
Callum Smith, British star and WBO champion cruiserweight champion Lawrence Okolie were not affected by such fireworks. They both remained calm throughout their encounters with Lenin Castillo & Dilan Prasovic.
