Joshua ready for debut fight

Last Updated: October 5, 2013 8:59am

Anthony Joshua insists he faces a real test of his credentials when he makes his debut against Italian Emanuele LeoAnthony Joshua says he is “as ready as he can be” for his professional debut against Emanuele Leo at the 02.

The 23-year-old, who won the super-heavyweight gold medal at the London Olympics in 2012, goes up against unbeaten Italian Leo on Saturday night, live on Sky Sports 2HD.

And the London-born fighter says he has worked hard to get himself ready for the next stage of his career.

“The unsung heroes, the trainers, are getting me in good condition,” said Joshua. “Credit goes to them guys, I’m as ready as I can be.

“Tomorrow is another day in the office. We work so hard on technique and tactical stuff so it is about getting it right on the day as I do in sparring and in the gym.”

Joshua is expecting a bumper crowd at the O2 and is hoping to harness their support as he did at the ExCeL to win Olympic gold last year.

“It is an amazing venue and to box here it is going to be an amazing atmosphere,” said Joshua.

“I’m going to feel just like I did in the Olympic final. It is going to bring it back. It has been a while but it feels like yesterday.

“This is a packed venue and everyone is here supporting the local boxers. The roar will go from my head to my toes.

“But I need to stay composed and once the bell goes all that goes out the window and it is me and him trading leather.”

Expectations are high for Joshua but the fighter is under no illusions as to how much work lay ahead.

“I’m another fighter who needs to prove myself and earn respect,” he added. “The expectations are great but I have a lot to prove myself. I’ve got a long way to go.

“I’ve got to be disciplined to live up to expectations. Hopefully I can get off to a good start, end on a good start and then get out again on the 26th, on the Kell Brook card.”

Watch Anthony Joshua’s professional debut live on Sky Sports 2 HD from 8.30pm on Saturday October 5.

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Joshua ready for debut fight