
Wed Sep 25 01:57:23 UTC 2024: ## Former Champ Rahman Urges Joshua to Replace Trainer After Dubois Loss
**LONDON** – Former heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman believes Anthony Joshua needs a drastic change in his corner following his shock knockout loss to Daniel Dubois last Saturday. Rahman specifically calls for the replacement of Joshua’s current trainer, Ben Davison, with boxing legend Lennox Lewis.
Rahman attributes Joshua’s defeat to a “passive” fighting style against Dubois, a strategy he believes was a major mistake. He argues that Lewis, with his wealth of experience and understanding of heavyweight boxing, would have provided Joshua with the necessary tactics to counter Dubois’ aggressive approach.
“I think Anthony Joshua needs a different trainer. I know there’s a trainer out there that he doesn’t necessarily get along with, but I believe Lennox Lewis can take him to the heavyweight championship of the world,” Rahman stated.
Rahman acknowledges that Joshua and Lewis might have past friction, but emphasizes the potential for a winning partnership. He suggests that Lewis could act as a second coach, offering guidance and strategic advice, particularly during fights.
He further criticizes Davison’s reported game plan, which allegedly involved Joshua throwing two jabs followed by an uppercut. This, Rahman claims, ultimately led to Joshua being caught with a counter right in the fifth round.
“The most important thing is experience,” Rahman explains. “He’s been in the situation that Anthony is currently in, and he knows how to come back.”
While acknowledging that a change in trainer might not solve all of Joshua’s problems, Rahman believes that the presence of Lewis would instill a more aggressive mindset and ensure Joshua’s strengths are utilized.
The call for a coaching change comes at a critical juncture for Joshua, who has suffered two recent losses. The future of his rivalry with Dubois remains unclear, with Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, suggesting a wait-and-see approach before a rematch.
Rahman’s strong opinion highlights the growing pressure on Joshua to make a decision regarding his coaching situation.