Anthony Joshua believes he will face ‘the new Frank Bruno’ at Wembley on Saturday.
The 34-year-old regards Watford ace Daniel Dubois as the latest version of British legend Bruno – who needed four attempts to capture the heavyweight world title.
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Dynamite Dan has only lost one attempt so far – against Oleksandr Usyk – but he also faced criticism after surrendering to Joe Joyce in his only other defeat.
When Bruno defeated Oliver McCall at Wembley to win the WBC crown in 1995, it was one of the most beautiful moments in modern boxing memory.
The 27-year-old Dubois, backed by Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren, will retain the same underdog mentality nearly 30 years later — and AJ knows it.
Joshua said: “They believe in him. He keeps getting opportunities. It reminds me of the Frank Bruno story.
“He had several opportunities to become heavyweight world champion, and he finally made it.”
Defending IBF champion Dubois is flying under the guidance of latest coach Don Charles.
But it is respected assistant Ian Duberry – brother of ex-Prem defender Michael – who Joshua knows best from his days on remand at Reading Prison.
AJ said: “I know Don well but I know Ian Duberry better than him. He was a guardian and head of the young offenders system when I was involved.
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“So I know that team and that gym and I know they don’t just operate from numbers, they operate from emotion.”
Rubbing shoulders with the glitzy guys doesn’t impress old-school fighter AJ.
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Anthony Joshua vs Daniel Dubois: Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the huge world title fight at Wembley
He said: “I’ve never been caught up in the superstar thing. I just look at people’s character.
“When I learn about his character, I take it to my community.
“Instead of just being intimidated by these people whom everybody admires, I try to understand their mind and mindset and how they got to where they are.
Imagine how much it would cost to consult Cristiano Ronaldo – so when I’m in the ring with him, I use the opportunity to ask him for advice.
Anthony Joshua
“These people can charge thousands of pounds for meetings – imagine how much it would cost to consult with Cristiano Ronaldo – so when I’m at ringside with them, I get the chance to pick from their brains.”
A potential spring bout with Tyson Fury for all four world belts is still a dream.
But Joshua claimed: “I’m a short-term dreamer.
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“I approach every week thinking, ‘What can I achieve this week?’.
“So I’m not looking for the undisputed. I’m looking for this week and then next week.”
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