Anthony Joshua's Former Trainer Gives Fury Fight Verdict

Derrick James' advice for Anthony Joshua

Derrick James says Anthony Joshua will need to move well and defend carefully to beat Tyson Fury when they meet at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium on Friday, December 11. James, who trained Joshua for his knockout win over Robert Helenius, told FightHype he plans to attend the bout in support of his former fighter.

James said Joshua’s quick hands and feet could be important, but stressed that he must make smart decisions and use his mobility. He also said Joshua needs to be defensively sound.

Joshua's run under James

Joshua joined James after losing twice to Oleksandr Usyk. The American trainer guided him to a decision win over Jermaine Franklin Jr., followed a few months later by the Helenius knockout. Joshua then moved on from James and appointed Ben Davison as his lead cornerman.

James also trained Jermell Charlo and Errol Spence Jr. during that period. His comments offer the perspective of a coach who worked with Joshua during the run that included the Helenius stoppage, though the two have since gone separate ways.

Joshua and Fury are scheduled to fight on December 11 at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff. Details of the undercard are expected to be announced soon.