SPORTS
HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMP HRGOVIC BEGS JOSHUA TO RETIRE
IBF heavyweight champion Filip Hrgovic has urged Anthony Joshua to consider retirement, saying the former two-time world champion’s recent performance left him concerned.
Speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, Hrgovic questioned whether Joshua should continue fighting after watching his bout against Kristian Prenga.
Joshua recovered from early knockdowns to win that contest, but Hrgovic said the difficulties he encountered were a warning sign.
The Croatian also questioned Joshua’s changes of trainer, arguing that rebuilding confidence mattered more than repeatedly changing his coaching team.
His comments reflect his assessment of Joshua’s performances, rather than a medical finding about the British-Nigerian boxer’s fitness.
Hrgovic stressed the dangers of remaining in boxing when a fighter can no longer compete effectively. He suggested Joshua should walk away after his scheduled December meeting with Tyson Fury.
Despite his criticism, Hrgovic acknowledged Joshua’s achievements and recognised that his punching power could still make him dangerous.
Joshua has not announced his retirement. The decision remains his, alongside the professional guidance of his team and the medical assessments required to compete.
Hrgovic’s remarks add to the debate over how much longer Joshua will remain in the ring as attention turns to his next fight.