Eddie Hearn addresses Joshua’s panic attack rumors and confrontation with his father

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Andy Ruiz Jr shocked the world last week when he knocked out the British superstar and IBF, WBA, WBO heavyweight champion of the world in the seventh round to become the new king of the division at the Madison Square Garden in New York City.

As Joshua lost his heavyweight title, boxing fans spotted an unusual confrontation between Joshua’s father Robert and between his promoter Eddie Hearn during the post-fight interview.

According to rumours, Joshua has knocked out during a sparring session against Joey Dawejko ahead of the Ruiz bout. Many fans, in fact, did notice the mark on Joshua’s face before the Ruiz fight.

Further, World Boxing News reported that Joshua’s father Robert wanted his son to be taken off the headline fight as he suffered a panic attack right before the bout.

Regarding the incident, Hearn told Behind The Gloves: “Anthony’s dad was upset with the result.

I’ve heard all sorts of rumours – there was no issue at all going into the fight.”

It’s a very emotional time for everyone, we were trying to keep calm.

I think sometimes you have to just forget what’s in play – the money, the networks, the belts – and just remember it’s a sport.

I’ve been brought up to say that, if you lose, you lose. And you get beaten by someone who deserves to win. That’s what happened tonight.”

Joshua himself added: “My dad’s upset. Losing isn’t a good night, but it’s something we can learn from.

My dad said, ‘Tighten up and get smart. When things are going good, nothing’s going wrong, then something bad happens, you realise’.

Dad’s upset, natural reaction. Mum’s cool. She doesn’t come to the boxing. So she separates the two – son from boxing.

Whole team, soldiers. Check, ‘You alright, you all good.’ And we roll with the punches. Good and bad.”