ANTHONY JOSHUA’S new coach reckons he’s the most “talented” and hardest-hitting heavyweight on the planet.
Robert Garcia has been brought in to help AJ prepare for his high-stakes summer rematch with Oleksandr Usyk following the axing of longtime trainer Robert McCraken.
Watford warrior Joshua first caught Garcia’s eye seven years ago when he battered Kevin Johnson and his progression over the years has left a lasting impression on the American.
He told Little Giant Boxing: “Still now, a year ago, two years ago, if you asked me, ‘Who is the most talented heavyweight?’ I’ve always said Anthony Joshua.
“Talent-wise, [Tyson] Fury is a different beast, a different monster.
“Usyk is very technical and difficult because he’s smaller and fast.”
Garcia had two secret training stints with AJ in the UK before his appointment was officially confirmed and has been blown away by the Brit’s bruising power.
He continued: “[Deontay] Wilder, tremendous power. Everybody has their own unique qualities.
“But overall, if you’re talking about talent, I pick Anthony Joshua. And another thing Anthony Joshua has is insane power.
“Oh my gosh, he’s got great power. More than anybody else I think.
“Wilder, I’ve never felt his power, but what I’ve seen of him [knocking] fools out, Wilder is one of those guys too that has that one-punch knockout power.
“But Anthony Joshua has it. He’s very, very strong.”
Garcia has coached 14 champions since hanging up his gloves in 2001 but has yet to guide a heavyweight to a world title.
And he’s relishing the challenge of handing slick southpaw Usyk his first professional loss.
He said: “It’s a big challenge for me because this is my first time taking a heavyweight to fight for a world title. So it’s kind of like a dream come true.
“I’ve had champions in almost every weight division from 105 to 108, to 112 to 115, 118, 122, 126 and 135lbs.
“I think I’m just missing cruiserweight, light-heavyweight and super-middleweight. Those are the three I’m missing plus heavyweight.
“But having a heavyweight champion is the top of the line. I’m excited.”
