Otto Wallin believes there is something different about Anthony Joshua as the two men prepare for their crucial heavyweight showdown in Saudi Arabia on Saturday.
They will figure in the co-feature on a blockbusting show, while Deontay Wilder faces Joseph Parker. Joshua (26-3) knows that wins for him and Wilder will set up a mammoth superfight on March 9.
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During fight week AJ has been all business, with little time for pleasantries, something Wallin has definitely noticed. He believes the British star is a changed man – and not in a good way.
Otto Wallin on Joshua
“He used to be a happy guy but from what I see now he seems very stiff and tense. Maybe he’s fed up of all of this stuff.”
We will find out on Saturday if indeed Joshua is ‘fed up’ of the big time, even with that reported $50m Wilder payday within touching distance. Wallin (26-1) has already taken Tyson Fury to the brink in the past, and now he aims to shock Joshua.
The Swede explained: “I’m a tricky southpaw, I’m a good fighter. It’s kind of a short notice to this fight. Also, he’s got a new trainer, so I think that can be tricky.”
While Wallin has been talking the talk this week, he admits this is a big night for him, and he will not be free from nerves as he bids to take his own massive step towards a potential world heavyweight title shot.
“Of course I’m nervous, but I just want to say thank you to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Frank Warren for making this happen. Of course I’m nervous, it’s a big fight, a big opportunity, but i’m ready for it. I’ve worked very hard to be here and now it’s time to enjoy the moment and win the fight and move on.
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“People talking about upsets, I’m going to win the fight and you shouldn’t call it an upset. It’s not really an upset, it’s just natural. This is my time so i’m ready for it. I’m just happy to be here.
“I’m just trying to be myself. People say I talk a lot now but I get asked questions and I just answer them how I feel. I’m not trying to make anything up, it’s just the truth. If people like it then fine, if they don’t then that’s okay too.