Anthony Joshua Reveals Career Rethink After Justin Gaethje's UFC Upset

Anthony Joshua says Justin Gaethje’s stunning UFC victory over Ilia Topuria made him rethink his own boxing career, calling the fight game 'serious' ahead of his July 25 bout with Kristian Prenga.

What happened at UFC White House?

On July 13, Justin Gaethje shocked the MMA world by defeating previously undefeated Ilia Topuria at UFC White House. The fight was a brutal four-round battle that ended Topuria’s perfect record and his aura of invincibility.

Anthony Joshua watched the fight closely. He saw Topuria, who had beaten fighters Gaethje had lost to, suffer a devastating loss. This made Joshua realize how unpredictable and brutal combat sports can be.

Why it matters for Anthony Joshua

Joshua told *Combat Evolved* that Topuria’s loss was a wake-up call. He stopped engaging with fans and media after the fight, saying, 'It’s not a joke. The fight game is serious.'

The British heavyweight champion compared Topuria’s confidence to his own past mistakes. He recalled his 2019 loss to Andy Ruiz Jr., where he was overconfident and lost his titles. Now, Joshua wants to stay focused and avoid distractions.

What comes next for AJ?

Joshua is preparing for his fight with Kristian Prenga on July 25. This bout is a warm-up for his planned showdown with Tyson Fury later this year.

He wants to surround himself with fighters, not partygoers. 'My army is fight-focused,' Joshua said. He’s determined to improve and stay away from those who don’t understand the seriousness of boxing.

Joshua’s career has seen highs and lows, but Topuria’s loss reminded him that no one is invincible. He’s ready to prove himself again in the ring.