
By Terence Dooley
Retired former super middleweight champ Carl Froch believes that Anthony Joshua’s decision to challenge Charles Martin for the IBF heavyweight title is a correct one and that the Londoner has proved he is prepared to take a risk in order to move his career forward.
Froch announced his retirement last year. He now does punditry work for Sky so has seen Joshua’s development first-hand.
“At this stage of his career he doesn't really need to take a risk but I think this shows what type of guy Joshua is personality-wise,” he said when speaking to The Sun. “He could have said he'd like to box a few more times and defend the British title before stepping up but he's gone for it.
"And it's not just all about the money because he earns good money when he fights anyway. He's on Sky Box Office and does good numbers—everyone knows that. I've got nothing but admiration for the guy. He's taking a risk but I think it is going to pay off.”
The fight takes place at London’s O2 arena on April 9 and will be shown live on Sky Sports Box Office here in the U.K. A win for Joshua (15-0, 15 KOs) is not guaranteed, but should he come through it will set up a slew of big fights over the coming years.
Indeed, the 26-year-old was sent a message of support via Twitter by former world Champion Wladimir Klitschko so his profile is already high, a win over Martin would further increase his standing in the division.
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