ANTHONY JOSHUA VS USYK – 10 LESSONS – BY EKS STEPHENS

I told my wife a few days before the fight that Usyk was a skilled operator who knows his trade. Having watched his previous fights, it was obvious to me that he was competent in his trade. The way he dismantled opponents after many rounds was incredible.

A few lessons:

1. SKILLS TRUMP QUALIFICATIONS: His skills trumped AJ’s height & built.
2. QUALIFICATIONS DON’T MAKE ONE COMPETENT FOR A POSITION: AJ has the macho built and reach. His size barely mattered and could not replace the hand skills, head movements and positioning, which Usyk brought to the table and are essentials for winning a fight.
3. POSITIONING IS KEY: Usyk decided to occupy a strategic competitive position throughout the fight. His body position as a South paw did not allow AJ any opportunity to use his preferred right hand.
4. SPEED AND DIRECTION ARE SO IMPORTANT FOR SUCCESS: Usyk started with speed and continued in that direction throughout the rounds.
5. CONSISTENCY IS KEY: Usyk found the winning formula earlier on and remained consistent in applying it, while making subtle changes.
6. IGNORE THE NOISE AROUND: Usyk ignored the opinion of the media and naysayers about his size and the goodness of AJ. He focused on his strengths and the aim of his visit to London.
7. NEVER UNDERESTIMATE YOUR OPPONENT’S ABILITIES: AJ probably underestimated Usyk’s abilities, newness to the weight division and body structure.
8. DESIRE AND DELIBERATENESS ARE ESSENTIAL TO SUCCESS: Usyk had more desire than AJ and was deliberate about winning. His intentions were there for all to see.
9. NEVER UNDERESTIMATE YOUR OPPONENT’S DESIRE TO HURT YOU: AJ probably felt that Usyk will respect his status and would be defensive. Usyk joined him at the centre of the court.
10. INNOVATION IS THE KEY: One must innovate to be on top of the game. AJ used his previous style of depending on his right hand. He didn’t add boxing and other ingredients to his last game.

You can see that it is important for one to be deliberate, acquire skills, keep one’s eyes on the goal and believe in one’s own abilities. Speed is also important!