Wayne Alexander (Former European super-welterweight champion)
I see it being a harder and better fight than a lot of people might think. Franklin is coming off a close fight against Dillian Whyte, which many people thought he won, and so will be confident and in fighting shape. As for Joshua, he is coming off back-to-back defeats and has changed trainers again, so no one is quite sure how his mind will be. In saying that I do feel Joshua is still hungry enough to be champion again. I also think his extra size, strength and all-round boxing ability will see him beat Franklin on points in a decent contest.
Jordan Gill (Former European featherweight champion)
I think it’s a great fight. Franklin pushed Dillian Whyte to the final bell in a close fight, so seeing how AJ deals with him will be interesting. Back-to-back defeats to Oleksandr Usyk and a change in training team are unknowns and make it even more mouth-watering. I expect to see a refreshed and aggressive AJ hopefully take Franklin out in the middle rounds to make a statement.
Marcus Morrison (Middleweight contender)
I can’t see anything other than an early KO for Joshua. He’s got a point to prove, and he’s got to win in good fashion. I don’t see Franklin bringing anything to the table that will trouble Joshua.
Declan Warrington (Journalist)
In a mostly convincing victory for Joshua, which will show he has got plenty left — physically at least. Not only is there no shame in losing to Usyk, he also performed really well in their rematch, which got overlooked after he did what he did in the ring, post-fight. If it doesn’t, he’s got some demons to conquer.
