After stopping Denis Bakhtov inside two rounds to win the WBC International heavyweight title, former Finchley ABC fighter Anthony Joshua admitted: “I just wanted to hurt him.”
The 24-year-old made it nine wins from nine professional fights, all by knock-out, at the O2 Arena on Saturday and was again imperious.
Bakhtov was meant to be a step up for Joshua. A difficult opponent. The Khazak fighter had not been stopped in a decade, but he was no match for 2012 Olympic gold medallist.
After a cautious start, the first round was a constant barrage from the former Finchley Amateur Boxing Club fighter.
Bakhtov attempted to hit back but it only proved to focus Joshua who pummelled the 34-year-old with strong left and right punches.
The fight made it to the second round but went no further. Joshua continued to dominate and it was inevitable when referee Ian-John Lewis stepped in to stop the contest.
Speaking after the fight, Joshua told Sky Sports: “It only went two rounds and I just wanted to hurt him. I could have boxed but I wanted to work my inside game. He has not been stopped, so I just wanted to see what he could take and see what he was about.
“He was a strong guy, he was not an easy opponent but I wanted to make light work of him.
“Britain is breeding some talented fighters. He had not been stopped for nine years but I don’t think he has fought anyone from here.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here