Anthony Joshua is open to a mid-fight while brave Oleksandr Usyk serves on Ukraine’s frontline against Russia

According to promoter Eddie Hearn, ANTHONY JOSHUA could fight a transitional battle while Oleksandr Usyk is serving in the Ukrainian military.

the IBF, WBA and WBO world heavyweight champion is currently defending his country Vladimir Putin’s Russian invasion.

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And while Usyk takes care of far more important things outside the ring, Joshua prepares for a rematch against the Ukrainian.

Usyk Beat AJ by unanimous decision at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in September.

After discussions of Joshua stepping aside to allow for an undisputed fight between Usyk and Tyson FuryThe Gypsy King has now chosen the mandatory challenger Dillian Whyte.

This left Joshua lined up for a rematch with Usyk in the first half of 2022, but Usyk’s military service could now delay that.

If asked Earlier this week when he will be ready to defend his beltsUsyk said, “I really don’t know when I’m going to get back in the ring.

“My country and my honor are more important to me than a championship belt.”

And Joshua’s promoter Hearn has hinted for the first time that the Brit could put up a fight before seeking revenge on Usyk.

Speaking of The MMA lessonhe said: “It is difficult to speak on behalf of Oleksandr Usyk.

“First my thoughts are with everyone in Ukraine and the people who are showing incredible courage out there, especially some of the great fighters of the past and also Oleksandr.

“He can have the time he needs. we [Joshua] doesn’t want any other fight than Oleksandr Usyk.

“Whether there is a delay for this fight and we have a mid-fight, I think it depends on the situation with Oleksandr Usyk and how much time he needs.

“It is a very emotional and personal time for the people of Ukraine. So we will respect them and give them all the time, but we wouldn’t try to back away from our commitment, I say.

“The only fight AJ wants right now is Oleksandr Usyk. If we have to fight in between, no problem at all, but we will respect this time for Oleksandr Usyk and talk to his agents.

“If there has to be a delay for the contract term, we’re happy to grant that, but we want that fight.

“We don’t want that commitment to slip away.”

Joshua has only fought twice since regaining the heavyweight belts against Andy Ruiz Jr. in December 2019.

He defended them against Kubrat Pulev in December 2020 before losing to Usyk last year.