Anthony Joshua Drops Down To Fifth In WBA’s Heavyweight Rankings

Anthony Joshua has dropped down in the latest heavyweight rankings.

The World Boxing Association has updated their heavyweight rankings and the biggest news was Joshua dropping down to fifth. For the longest time, Joshua was considered either the best or second just below Tyson Fury or Deontay Wilder, yet his recent loss halted that.

The rankings had  Daniel Dubois, Michael Hunter, Robert Helenius and Hughie Fury all ranked above Joshua which was a surprise. Joshua is also ranked one spot ahead of Deontay Wilder.

Joshua, of course, lost his heavyweight titles back in September as he dropped a clear-cut decision to Oleksandr Usyk. He will now be rematching Usyk sometime this year but if he loses again, he could very well drop again as he would be 2-3 in his last five and would be a long way from a title shot.

Meanwhile, the WBA removed Andy Ruiz Jr. removed from the rankings as they believe he could box WBC champion, Tyson Fury next.

As Anthony Joshua prepares to rematch Usyk has been training with several different fighters as he was seen working with Floyd Mayweather. He also brought in fellow Brit Lawrence Okolie to give him some new looks. The new looks is key for success, Joshua believes.

“I had to make changes. If you remain the same, you get the same results. I’ve got to look at myself, I can only be accountable for me,” Joshua said to the BBC. “I’m angry at myself and the only way I can be in a better place is to get myself right by going out there and performing. It’s going to be like this for a few months. I do things with a smile on my face, but behind that, there’s a lot of tension brewing and the only way to get it out is by training and performing.

“I know I can be better than that night. It’s easier to say than it is to do, but within my heart and soul, my brain and body, I truly feel I’ve got a lot more to give,” Joshua added. “I’m angry. It’s growing, but it’s fuelling me every day.”

What do you make of Anthony Joshua dropping to fifth in WBA’s heavyweight ranks?