Last chance for Joe Joyce? Against the Croatian knockout machine Filip Hrgovic on Saturday in Manchester, it’s a matter of sporting survival for the Brit!
Filip Hrgovic returns after ten months out of the ring – and against an opponent who has his back to the wall: Joe Joyce. Following Dillian Whyte’s withdrawal due to injury, the Croatian knockout specialist is stepping in at short notice to face the British “Juggernaut” at the Co-Op Arena in Manchester on Saturday. It’s all to play for for both heavyweights – and the rematch of their amateur encounter from 2013 adds to the tension.
“This is not a substitute opponent – this is a dangerous touchstone!” Joe Joyce said on the fringes of a media appointment. The 39-year-old is under enormous pressure: after two brutal defeats against Zhilei Zhang and a disappointing points decision against Derek Chisora, Joyce urgently needs a win. Another defeat might even seal the end of his career.
It is also a fight with a signal effect for Filip Hrgovic. The bronze medal winner from Rio 2016 recently lost to Daniel Dubois and was thrown back a long way in the IBF rankings as a result. “Joyce is tough, but I’m ready. I want to show that I’m one of the best in the world,” said Hrgovic combatively.
Duel with a history
The two faced each other back in 2013, when Joyce won a close amateur duel. Now, over a decade later, they meet again – this time it’s about career, rankings and survival in the shark tank of the heavyweight division.
While Hrgovic has 17 wins (15 knockouts) and only one defeat, Joyce is at a crossroads with a 16-3 (15 knockouts) record. But instead of looking for an easier replacement opponent, the Brit accepts the risky fight. A move that could turn out to be a heroic act or a final defeat. “It’s now or never,” says Joyce. “I know what’s at stake.” The fight promises excitement, explosiveness – and probably the end of all title dreams for the loser.
Text by Robin Josten