Champion Anthony Joshua and challenger Kubrat Pulev are both in tremendous shape headed into Saturday night’s title matchup. Joshua’s 240 is three pounds more than his rematch win over Andy Ruiz last December but also his second lowest weight since his 2014 knockout win over Michael Sprott. Pulev’s 239 is his lowest weight since tipping the scales at 240.5 against Hughie Fury in 2018.
The weight-in was uncharacteristically feisty as both men spend a several minutes trash talking after the staredown.
PREDICTION: Pulev’s jab and height might give Joshua some early issues, but the champion’s superior in every facet His advantages in punch variety, speed and power should have Pulev under the gun within a few rounds and making the 39 year old feel his age, leading to the eventual stoppage. Joshua TKO within six rounds.
Beats, Boxing and Mayhem 