Hearn backs Joshua to bounce back

British boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has thrown his weight behind Anthony Joshua as he prepares ahead of his return to the ring.

The two-time heavyweight champion has not been in action following his second successive defeat to Oleksandr Usyk in August last year.

Joshua's desire to redeem himself with another bout at the tail end of last year did not materialise as plans to host the mouth-watering all-British heavyweight contest with Tyson Fury fell on rocks due to self-imposed deadlines.

Hearn in a recent interview disclosed that the 33-year-old has acquired the services of a new trainer ahead of his return to the ring in April.

“April 1 is our targeted date in London. I’ll go through the final list of opponents. We’re almost ready. He’s excited,” Hearn told DAZN.

“I’m happy with the trainer. I’m happy with anyone who makes AJ feel comfortable, motivated, and excited. I think this is going to be a nice break.

“The problem is being in the UK, he can’t breathe. When he goes to America, people know who he is, but it’s like a different world.

“I think it’s going to be really good for him. I think you’re going to see a reinvigorated Anthony Joshua.”