Anthony Joshua: The keys to victory

By: Hans Themistode

Anthony Joshua makes his long-awaited debut in the United States, when he faces former title challenger Andy Ruiz Jr (32-1, 21 KOs) at Madison Square Garden. Until then, Joshua has only competed in the UK.

Joshua will not be discreet in his first fight in America. Ruiz has had an impressive career so far and will be sure to test the unified heavyweight champion. Joshua can not be complacent. If he neglects Ruiz anyway, it will cause his fall.

Keep it on the outside

Joshua's power is well described, he can end a fight in the blink of an eye. His inner game, however, requires a little more work. The unified champion is not known for his physical attack or melee work. For its part, Ruiz has proven itself once inside.

In fact, Ruiz was more than 20 pounds Joshua when they hit the scales. This amount of weight squeezing Joshua all night could be exhausting. What Joshua should focus on is using his advantage of reaching eight inches to keep the jab against his opponent all night long. Ruiz may end up penetrating inside, but Joshua must charge him to get too close.

Stay patient

The makers made Joshua a big favorite for this contest. It's for a good reason. Joshua could be the best heavyweight in the world. That said, he must remain calm. WBC heavyweight belt holder Deontay Wilder sent a terrifying message with the destruction of a Dominic Breazeale tour just a few weeks ago. As this is Joshua's first fight in America, he may feel obliged to make his own statement. That would lead to his defeat.

Even if only one opponent has survived the last ring against Joshua, he is not an artist at a knockout. The British-born fighter is no longer a counter-puncher waiting for the perfect time to catch his man. His opponents often collapse after an accumulation of punishments, not just one shot. If Joshua can remain patient and wait for good opportunities, he will be able to get his man out of there dramatically.

Defend your territory

Ruiz is an aggressive fighter. He also launches punches in clusters. Joshua can not afford to let Ruiz push him away.

Joshua, instead, must remain firm and intimidate the smaller Ruiz. If Joshua recedes all night, he will play in the hands of Ruiz. Expect the champion to force Ruiz to come back and impose his will on the contest.