WATCH: Anthony Joshua LOSES COOL Backstage Following Usyk Defeat

Written by Jared Parry on 21st August 2022.

Anthony Joshua failed in his quest to regain his heavyweight world titles, as he came up just short in a valiant effort against Oleksandr Usyk.

The bout was declared a split decision in Usyk's favour and the post-fight behaviour of Joshua seemed very much out of character. Joshua was seen throwing the WBA and Ring Magazine world title belts out of the ring, before leaving the ring to a chorus of boo's. Joshua would stop and return to the ring to grab a mic to deliver a bizarre speech.

Joshua said: "I'm stealing this, Usyk. I'm sorry, but it's because of the passion we put into this,” Joshua began. "This guy to beat me tonight, maybe I could have done better, but it shows the level of hard work I put in. So please, give him a round of applause as our heavyweight champion of the world.

"I'm not a 12-round fighter. Look at me, I'm a new breed of heavyweight. Mike Tyson, Sonny Liston, Jack Dempsey, 'You don't throw combinations like Rocky Marciano.' I'm heavy, it's hard work," Joshua went on to say. "This guy here (Usyk) is a phenomenal talent. We're going to cheer for him three times."

Following this speech, Joshua would leave the ring and go backstage, where he would be greeted by media. Many applauded and consoled Joshua, but one man in the huddle would shout "Keep it Professional" to Joshua. Joshua would react as he turned round to confront the heckler shouting "Who the f**k are you talking too?!" before security pulled Joshua away.

It is unknown what motivated Joshua to make this post-fight speech, but lets not takeaway from the two warriors who put on a tremendous heavyweight title fight in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.