Former super-middleweight world champion George Groves has advised Anthony Joshua to seek the help of boxing legend Mike Tyson as he prepares for his highly anticipated heavyweight clash with Tyson Fury.
Groves believes Joshua needs to rethink his fighting strategy if he hopes to overcome Fury when the British rivals meet on December 11 at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales.
The recommendation comes as both fighters head into the showdown following victories in their previous bouts. Fury defeated Polish veteran Mariusz Wach, while Joshua recovered from two knockdowns to stop Kristian Prenga.
Groves recommends Tyson-inspired tactics
Speaking to Grosvenor Sport, Groves suggested that Joshua could benefit from Mike Tyson’s experience, particularly his ability to overcome opponents who enjoyed advantages in height and reach.
The former champion urged Joshua to consider adopting elements of Tyson’s famous “peekaboo” fighting style, which relies on constant head movement, defensive positioning and explosive attacks at close range.
“I think Anthony Joshua should bring Mike Tyson in to come up with the plan to beat Tyson Fury,” Groves said.
He explained that Joshua should focus on crouching, slipping punches, moving forward and launching powerful hooks and uppercuts from a lower position.
According to Groves, such an approach could help Joshua close the distance and reduce the advantage Fury enjoys because of his height and reach.
Mike Tyson has already declared his support
However, recruiting the American boxing icon could prove complicated because Mike Tyson has publicly expressed support for Fury ahead of the encounter.
Speaking about the upcoming fight during an interview with Piers Morgan, Tyson said he was backing Fury, adding that it would be nice to see him defeat Joshua.
Groves also tipped Fury to win, suggesting that the heavyweight could stop Joshua within the opening three rounds if he lands clean punches and establishes his range early.
Despite the predictions, the December showdown is attracting considerable attention as the long-awaited meeting between the two heavyweight rivals approaches.
Whether Joshua adopts Groves’ proposed tactics or brings Tyson into his training camp remains to be seen.
