Anthony Joshua backed to make dramatic sport switch - 'He's huge'
Anthony Joshua is being encouraged to switch from boxing to MMA by UFC star Islam Makhachev, who believes he has the potential to excel in the sport.
Anthony Joshua, the heavyweight boxing champion, has recently been in the spotlight following his involvement in a tragic car accident that claimed the lives of two friends in Nigeria. As he recuperates and resumes light training, Joshua is considering a dramatic career shift to mixed martial arts (MMA). His presence at a Professional Fighters League (PFL) MMA event in Dubai indicates his growing interest in the sport, suggesting he may be open to new opportunities following a challenging period in his life.
UFC star Islam Makhachev, a notable figure in the MMA community, has expressed strong support for Joshua's potential transition. Makhachev, who is known for his wrestling skills and striking ability, emphasizes Joshua's physical prowess and boxing skills as assets that could translate well into MMA. During an interview, he mentioned Joshua's interest in creating merchandise and emphasized the need for him to visit Dagestan to enhance his wrestling technique, which is crucial for success in MMA.
This anticipated shift from boxing to MMA for Joshua not only highlights his versatility as an athlete but also raises questions about the cross-disciplinary nature of combat sports. If he were to successfully make this transition, it could open new avenues for his career and significantly impact the MMA landscape, potentially drawing more boxing fans to the sport and enriching the competitive community with a high-caliber athlete.