The WBC heavyweight ruler, who is in preparations to defend his title against Bermane Stiverne this weekend, foresees Joshua’s obvious stamina issues ultimately being his downfall if they fought.
“(Joshua) will show courage until he runs out of gas, then it’s life and death for him,” said Wilder to PBC’s Lem Satterfield.
“Once he’s tired, I see him giving up. Once that happens, I’m going to turn up the heat on him and it’s a wrap. They may throw in the towel.”
Wilder also played down Joshua’s career-best win over Wladimir Klitschko back in April by stating the Briton fought a former champion passed his prime at Wembley Stadium.
“Joshua beat Klitschko when he had no belts,” pointed out Wilder. “And he was coming off a (year and a half) layoff and the loss to Tyson (Fury, on points in Dusseldorf).
“I’ve seen a lot I can exploit in Joshua that I’ll keep it to myself, but he ain’t ready for me.
“It’s the perfect time to display my talents as the real champion. After witnessing my skills, athleticism and power, fans can make direct comparisons.
“So, the truth will reveal itself that I’m the chosen king of the division,” he added.
Joshua’s stoppage of Takam has been welcomed by more questions than answers as the timing of the referee stepping in, coupled with ‘AJ’ struggling to deal with the Cameroonian’s awkwardness, hampered the celebrations.
Despite the ‘Bronze Bomber’ clearly wanting a unification, Joshua has plans to fight three times in 2018 and is said to be looking elsewhere for a March return to action.
Tyson Fury has been mentioned by promoter Eddie Hearn, although would never be ready for the spring, leaving Joshua with few options open to him.
WBO title holder Joseph Parker would probably be first choice for the unified king despite handler David Higgins ruling out a fight unless a potential deal meets the New Zealander’s requirements.
