Anthony Joshua brands Fury vs. Usyk negotiations a 'shambles' in damning assessment

Anthony Joshua pulled no punches as he shared his honest views on the collapse of Tyson Fury vs. Oleksander Usyk.

Joshua, who's on a two-fight losing skid, returns to action this weekend as he faces Jermaine Franklin.

His bout against the American comes after Fury vs. Usyk fell through following prolonged discussions between both camps.

Fury's promoter Frank Warren and Usyk's promoter Alex Krassyuk failed to agree terms on a blockbuster undisputed showdown, with Joshua calling the situation a 'shambles' in a damming assessment.

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Speaking at the pre-fight press conference, he said: "Looking at the champions, it's just a shambles. I can't believe no fights have been made at the championship level."

Joshua will look to get back to winning ways, having lost back-to-back fights to Usyk and he will do so under the tutelages of new trainer Derrick James.

"It's for me to do my job on Saturday," he added. "From round one to round 12, I'm prepared for a 12 rounder, but I do believe in my ability, my counter-punching and all that to put a dent in Jermaine.

"I took myself away to disconnect and all the questions I've been asking myself, the answers came."

The 33-year-old continued: "I respect Derrick fully and I trust everything he's saying. The knowledge he spits is phenomenal.

"The physical work's done. It's all about the knowledge. That's where you've got to train your mind. Derrick is up there with one of the best people I've spoken to about boxing.

"I'm looking forward to showing him he hasn't wasted his time by taking on this project."

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