“My Target Is to Destroy Everyone!” Arslanbek Makhmudov Sets His Sights on Anthony Joshua

What would it take for a boxer to announce, without the slightest hint of hesitation, that his goal is to “destroy everyone” in the ring? It sounds like a line from a sports-themed blockbuster movie, but for heavyweight knockout specialist Arslanbek Makhmudov, with 15 KOs in his last 16 bouts,  these aren’t just scripted words – they might just be a promise. A fiery decree aimed at sending shockwaves through the boxing world.

In a video shared by Sky Sports on Twitter, Makhmudov, known for his powerful punches and unconventional training methods, voices his intentions with a brazen boldness that sends a clear message: he’s not here to play games; he’s here to dominate.

Most notably, his focus sharpens on Anthony Joshua, one of the most accomplished heavyweights of his generation. But why Joshua? That’s where the plot thickens. The answer lies in the shared history between Makhmudov and Joshua – a history that goes back to their amateur days. It’s a history, the Russian boxer believes, that would make a bout against Joshua far more than just a fight. It’s about setting the stage for a boxing showdown of epic proportions. Now, isn’t that something to stick around for?

Makhmudov targets Joshua: A shared history and fans’ reaction

The reason behind Makhmudov’s keen interest in Joshua is their shared history in the amateur circuit. During an interview, the Russian heavyweight made a bold claim that has set tongues wagging in the boxing community. “My target is to destroy everyone. I’d like to fight with Joshua because we have a couple of opponents in amateur,” said Makhmudov. “These two guys, he lost them in amateur. It’s Mihai Nistor and Mahammadrasul Majidov. I beat those guys. He lost to these guys, I beat these guys. It’s like history you know.”

As the news of Makhmudov’s desire to challenge Joshua spread, boxing fans around the world shared their thoughts on this potential face-off. Chris Andre Boxing, a fan, posted on Twitter, “He’s a monster but he’s a bit stiff. I have a feeling a mover with a raiding style would cause him issues stylistically. AJ isn’t that guy stylistically speaking, so I can’t see them taking that risk with Arslanbek Makhmudov.”

A user named Tom echoed the sentiment, observing the common desire to face Joshua but not Fury. “Love how they all want Joshua but not Fury. Yet Fury is meant to be the man at Heavyweight,” he tweeted.

Adding a perspective of process and merit, Mark Bridges suggested a preliminary test for Makhmudov. “Stick him in with a Michael Hunter or a Derek Chisora first. Make him earn the right to set up further,” he posted.

Darren had a similar viewpoint, arguing that Makhmudov should aim for younger contenders first. “Should be aiming for Anderson or DDD, not the top guys yet, no way the top guys even entertain him,” he tweeted.

Finally, BUCKO left a cryptic message: An intriguing mix of names, it seems to suggest a broad range of possible opponents and match-ups in the heavyweight division.

The fans have had their say, but ultimately, the decisions lie with the fighters and their management teams. As the anticipation builds, the boxing world waits with bated breath.

Also read: Dillian Whyte Reveals Why His Potential Fight Against Anthony Joshua “Just Collapsed”

Will Makhmudov get his wish and step into the ring with Joshua, or will other contenders come to the fore? And if the bout does take place, can Makhmudov live up to his self-proclaimed image of a ‘destroyer,’ or will Joshua prove an insurmountable challenge?

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