Can Anthony Joshua handle Makhmudov’s power? promoter weighs in

On October 11, in Sheffield, Arslanbek Makhmudov defeated Dave Allen (24-8-2, 19 KOs) by unanimous decision. This win ensures Makhmudov (21-2, 19 KOs) is likely to move on to a big fight next.

The return of Anthony Joshua (28-4, 25 KOs) appears to be edging closer. A Joshua vs Makhmudov appears a distinct possibility. His promoter, Camille Estephan, has spoken to Sky Sports and asked a critical question regarding Joshua vs Makhmudov.

Arslanbek Makhmudov’s promoter questions if Anthony Joshua can handle his power

Makhmudov produced a disciplined, effective performance against Dave Allen, controlling the distance with his reach and punching straight, backing Allen up.

The Russian looked uncertain when Allen closed the distance, but it didn’t happen enough, and Makhmudov deserved the win, and it appears he will now move on to bigger fights.

Makhmudov’s promoter, Camille Estephan, has welcomed a fight against Joshua, who has no confirmed opponent for his comeback:

“Definitely, I think it would be a great fight,” Estephan told Sky Sports.

Referring to Makhmudov’s power , and whether AJ can absorb that power like Allen did: 

“Arslanbek has shown against Allen that he has more than just nuclear power. The question remains though, can AJ handle Makhmudov’s power? I think a huge number of fans would like to find out.”

The Russian did reveal in the ring after his Allen fight that he has spoken to Joshua: “Anthony Joshua, where are you? I’m coming for you.

“I’ve already spoken with him and he gave me his word that he will fight me next year. I’m ready.”

The return of Anthony Joshua

The return of Joshua appears to be getting closer, with his promoter Eddie Hearn recently telling Sky Sports: “If [AJ] fights this year, that will be a pure run out. It won’t be a top 15 guy,” the promoter continued. “He’s either going to have those two fights before Tyson Fury, if that can get made, or he’s going to have the one fight in February.

“We haven’t really decided yet but he’s keen to get active.”

Looking at Hearn’s and Estephan’s comments, it seems a Makhmudov vs Joshua clash fits and looks a real possibility. It would be a huge opportunity for the Russian and a calculated risk for AJ to make this an intriguing proposition.