Carl Frampton: Joshua Needs Win Over Wallin to Compete at Elite Level

Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder are set to headline a blockbuster event on December 23. Joshua, a former Olympic champion, is slated to face Otto Wallin in a bout that Carl Frampton asserts is pivotal for Joshua’s aspirations to compete among the elite in the heavyweight division.

In what promises to be a pre-holiday treat for boxing enthusiasts, Carl Frampton has emphasized the high stakes for Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder in their upcoming fights against Otto Wallin and Joseph Parker, respectively. Scheduled for December 23 in Saudi Arabia, this event carries significant implications for the heavyweight division.

Former world champion Joshua is set to face off against Wallin, while Wilder takes on Parker in what could potentially set the stage for a much-anticipated clash between the two heavyweights in 2024. Negotiations between Joshua and Wilder have previously teased an ultimate showdown, making these upcoming bouts crucial stepping stones towards that prospective mega-fight.

The stacked card also includes the participation of former world titleholder Daniel Dubois, as well as current light heavyweight champions Lyndon Arthur (IBO) and Dmitry Bivol (WBA). This lineup underscores the magnitude of the event, promising an enthralling night for boxing aficionados worldwide.

“It’s unbelievable,” Frampton told TNT Sport. “What a present for us all.”

Anthony Joshua’s anticipated comeback to the ring against Otto Wallin marks his first fight since securing a knockout victory over Robert Helenius in London back in August. The former Olympic champion is determined for a triumphant return, vowing a “demolition job” as he sets his sights on regaining world championship glory.

Now 34 years old, Joshua hasn’t held any titles since his defeats in two encounters against Oleksandr Usyk in 2021 and 2022. However, his ambition remains undiminished as he aims for a resurgence in the heavyweight division.

Wallin, on the other hand, boasts a commendable record of six consecutive victories since his competitive bout against Tyson Fury in Las Vegas in 2019, which stands as his sole loss in 28 professional fights. Frampton acknowledges the challenge ahead for Joshua, deeming it a “tough fight” that the former world champion simply cannot afford to lose.

The looming showdown between Joshua and Wallin intensifies the stakes, positioning it as a crucial juncture in Joshua’s quest for redemption and a path back to the top tier of heavyweight boxing.