Anthony Joshua Selects 2017 Trainer of the Year Derrick James as New Coach
Joshua Prepares for 2023 Comeback Under Renowned Trainer
Anthony Joshua, Britain’s former unified heavyweight champion, has reportedly chosen Derrick James, the 2017 Ring Magazine Trainer of the Year, as his new coach for the foreseeable future. Sources have revealed that Joshua, after parting ways with his previous trainers, will now work with James, who is based in Dallas, Texas.
Derrick James: A Proven Champion-Maker
Derrick James is highly regarded in the boxing world, currently training two of the sport’s top champions—unified welterweight titleholder Errol Spence Jr. and undisputed super welterweight champion Jermell Charlo. James has built a reputation for excellence and is even in the running for the 2022 Trainer of the Year. His experience with elite fighters has likely influenced Joshua’s decision as he seeks to reclaim his dominance in the heavyweight division.
Joshua, who has a record of 24-3 with 22 KOs, is banking on James’ expertise to guide him back to world title contention.
Searching for the Right Fit
Joshua’s decision comes after an extended period of speculation about his training situation. Following his first loss to Oleksandr Usyk, Joshua parted ways with longtime coach Robert McCracken, under whose guidance he had achieved tremendous success. For his 2022 rematch with Usyk, Joshua enlisted the help of American trainer Robert Garcia, but after just one camp together, Joshua is now moving on once again.
In his quest for a new trainer, Joshua reportedly considered several top names, including Virgil Hunter and Roy Jones Jr., before settling on Derrick James. The British star has expressed his desire to broaden his knowledge and work with different coaches to enhance his skill set.
“I locked myself down for 11 years with one coach, and now I just feel like I want to learn as much as possible,” Joshua said. “I’m in a position where I can work with anyone, so who knows what will happen next.”
Joshua’s Return Set for Spring 2023
Anthony Joshua is expected to make his return to the ring in the spring of 2023, with April 1 being the most likely date. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, has suggested that the bout will take place at London’s 18,000-capacity O2 Arena and be broadcast live on DAZN pay-per-view.
Rumors have circulated that Joshua’s next opponent could be undefeated Australian southpaw Demsey McKean (22-0, 14 KOs). McKean, ranked #10 with the WBO and #11 with the IBF, is promoted by Matchroom and could pose a solid challenge for Joshua as he seeks to rebuild momentum.
Potential Title Eliminator on the Horizon
A fight between Joshua and McKean could potentially serve as an eliminator for the IBF’s #2 spot, positioning Joshua for a future clash with the #1 contender, Filip Hrgovic, also under the Matchroom banner. This fight could lead Joshua back to a world title opportunity, especially if the heavyweight championship becomes vacant.
As Joshua prepares for his comeback under the guidance of Derrick James, fans eagerly await to see if this new partnership will restore AJ to the top of the heavyweight division.
