Alexander Povetkin is a tougher test for Anthony Joshua than Wladimir Klitschko, according to David Haye

By Ringnews24

Australian-based boxing journalist Anthony Cocks has been covering the sport for over 15 years for various print and online publications. He refuses to believe that Roberto Duran ever lost to Tommy Hearns and says that Jeff Fenech would destroy Chuck Norris, Bruce Lee and Muhammad Ali on the same night.

Recently retired David Haye believes that Anthony Joshua’s upcoming fight against Alexander Povetkin could provide him with a sterner test than his breakthrough victory over long-time champion Wladimir Klitschko.

The undefeated Englishman will defend his WBA, WBO and IBF titles against the Russian veteran at Wembley Stadium in London on September 22.

“I believe Povetkin is the toughest opponent Joshua has ever had and that includes his fights with Klitschko, [Dillian] Whyte and [Joseph] Parker,” said Haye in an interview with SunSport.

“His amateur pedigree is stronger than Joshua’s. He was Olympic, World and European Champion when representing Russia. He’s been boxing a lot longer than Joshua and he’s a few years older than him and a very, very solid campaigner.”

The 39-year-old Povetkin 34-1 (24) and the 28-year-old Joshua 21-0 (20) have a common opponent in Klitschko. Povetkin was knocked down three times en route to a wide unanimous decision loss to Klitschko in a world title bout five years ago.

Joshua famously defeated the long-reigning champion by TKO11 in a competitive fight in April last year.

“His [Povetkin] only loss was on points to Klitschko, and that was when Klitschko, was in his prime,” continued Haye. “The Klitschko that fought Joshua, in my opinion, was not as good as the Klitschko that beat Povetkin.

“That’s not to take anything away from AJ’s victory, I just know from first-hand experience how years on one’s clock has such a notable impact on the fighter you face in the ring.

“Joshua is in for a real fight against a contender who is on a long string of victories and understands what it takes to win at the top level. Povetkin is hungry and determined and we are going to see a barnstormer of a fight.”