Anthony Joshua and Oleksandr Usyk kept their exchanges respectful in the build-up to their rematch on Saturday night.
But, former middleweight contender Matthew Macklin encouraged Joshua not to get too friendly with his opponent.
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Usyk sent the box and nearly knocked Joshua out in their first fight
In the first fight, Usyk masterfully beat Joshua, who looked a little shy and seemed hesitant to throw his shots and use his size and strength to his advantage.
In the rematch, Joshua vowed to show more aggression and Macklin advised him, while sharing the wisdom of his former coach, Billy Graham, who also worked with Ricky Hatton.
“I remember Billy Graham used to tell me once the first bell rang, don’t touch the gloves,” Macklin said.
“It’s not one of those where you have to look them in the face and talk rudely, but don’t touch the gloves once the first bell has rung.
“He’s not your buddy and don’t let him think he’s your buddy, because they have subtle ways of intimidating.
“Like when you get close to the clinch and he goes a little square, push him and let him feel your strength, there are different ways to intimidate.
Instagram: @anthonyJoshua
Joshua seemed particularly focused on preparing for that rematch with Usyk
“We’re here now, it’s fight week and business is real. Anthony Joshua’s career is on the line here.
“If he gets stopped in this fight I believe he retires, I don’t think he would box again and that’s what’s at stake here and he has to have that advantage over him.
“He doesn’t need to be nervous, but he needs to realize how serious it is.
“Oleksandr Usyk is not your mate and let him feel it.”
Usyk vs. Joshua 2 on talkSPORT
