Anthony Joshua Names Roberto Duran as His Favourite Boxer to Watch

Posted : 05 July 2026

Anthony Joshua has named boxing legend Roberto Duran as his favourite fighter to watch, highlighting the Panamanian great's lasting influence on his approach to the sport.

The former two-time heavyweight world champion made the revelation during an interview with DAZN Boxing as he prepares for his next fight later this month. When asked which boxer he enjoys watching the most, Joshua gave a simple answer: Roberto Duran.

Joshua has long described himself as a student of boxing. Although he only began boxing at the age of 18, he quickly rose through the ranks, winning Olympic gold for Great Britain at the London 2012 Games before turning professional.

His rapid rise continued in 2016 when he captured his first world heavyweight title with a knockout victory over Charles Martin. Joshua later unified the division with memorable victories over Wladimir Klitschko and Joseph Parker, collecting the IBF, WBA, IBO and WBO world titles.

The British star suffered the first defeat of his professional career against Andy Ruiz Jr. in 2019 but regained his titles by winning the rematch six months later. He later lost two successive world title fights to Oleksandr Usyk before another setback against IBF champion Daniel Dubois.

Joshua returned to winning ways in December with a stoppage victory over Jake Paul and is now preparing to face Kristian Prenga in late July. Victory is expected to keep alive discussions over a long-awaited all-British showdown with former WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, although no official venue has been announced.

Duran remains one of the most celebrated fighters in boxing history. Nicknamed "Hands of Stone," the Panamanian won world championships in four weight divisions between 1972 and 1989. He built a reputation for relentless pressure, exceptional durability and outstanding technical ability during a professional career that produced more than 100 victories.

Joshua's admiration for Duran reflects his long-standing habit of studying fighters from different eras as he continues preparations for the next stage of his heavyweight career. The 36-year-old will be aiming to secure another convincing victory against Prenga before pursuing another opportunity to compete at the highest level.

Anthony Joshua Names Roberto Duran as His Favourite Boxer to Watch

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