Anthony Joshua works out with several kids from his gym in incredible gesture ahead of Daniel Dubois fight
Yesterday at 19:43
Anthony Joshua invited down a host of guests as he worked out three days until he fights Daniel Dubois.
Joshua and Dubois will meet in a titanic heavyweight tussle at Wembley Stadium for the latter’s IBF world title in the capital this weekend.
The pair took to the smaller Wembley Arena to show off their skills and go through the slow-paced motions in an open workout.
Joshua, in trademark fashion, refused to give much away, but this time he worked out in a unique fashion.
AJ stepped into the ring with a whole host of children from his Finchley & District ABC gym, where he trained in his youth locally.
The kids, who were all at a variety of ages, shadow boxed with Joshua leading the pack as he put himself through his paces without gloves on.
Many had beams on their faces as he greeted each one, with his coach Ben Davison watching on as they were given the spotlight.
It was an extremely heartwarming gesture with Joshua keen to bring children into the sport, and continue to grow it from a grassroots level.
Joshua said after his workout: “It’s a chance for them to be on the big stage.
“They are the boys and girls from my boxing club, we are in a local town so I thought I’d bring them down.
“It means everything to open doors for them, just like people opened doors for me.”
Joshua went on to add: “Canvas feels good, size feels good. Could wrap my hands and fight today.
“I have no emotions, I am just here. I’m expecting more media, more training and walking to the ring in front of 96,000 people.
“I will show my gladiatorial spirit, I appreciate your time and bring on Saturday.”
Dubois went through a more rigorous routine, stretching out before lacing up his gloves.
‘Dynamite’ carries some serious power, and looked to show that as he crashed his coach’s mitts with some swift combinations.
He didn’t work for too long, but certainly was keen to showcase his moves to the crowd.
But the 27-year-old remained in the zone with full focus towards the weekend.
Dubois said: “It’s great, I am ready to fight and I am in a good place.
“It’s all part of the pre-fight ritual, I’m going through the motions. I know I need to go to another level.
“I can’t wait for the challenge, I’m not sure I’m heavier I’ve just worked hard in the gym.”
It is a big opportunity for both men with Dubois keen to make a first defence of his title.
Joshua has the chance to make history and join Evander Holyfield and Lennox Lewis in an elite club by becoming a three-time world heavyweight champion.
A win is expected to provide a huge platform for the winner to challenge the victor of the rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury for the undisputed titles.
talkSPORT will bring you exclusive live commentary of the heavyweight clash at Wembley Stadium between Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois on Saturday, September 21. Download the talkSPORT app here.
