Anthony Joshua explains Floyd Mayweather tribute in Kubrat Pulev victory

Anthony Joshua admits it was an “honour” to fight in front of Floyd Mayweather Jr and execute one of the American’s signature punches, the pull counter, in his knockout performance against Kubrat Pulev.

The world heavyweight champion dispatched the Bulgarian in nine rounds last year with Mayweather Jr making the trip to London to watch the fight.

Joshua was impressive throughout, but noticeably added one of Mayweather Jr’s trademark shots, which appeared to be deliberate, given the special guest sitting ringside and having long-since admitted that he takes inspiration from the former pound-for-pound king.

“It was the first time we were allowed fans back and Mayweather was in the stadium,” Joshua explained on his YouTube channel.

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“It was an honour to have him in the house. I respect him highly for what he has achieved.

“He came to see me perform and I pulled off one of his favourite moves - the pull-counter. If you watch boxing you will know that is one of Mayweather's signature moves.”

Mayweather Jr revealed that he was “proud” of Joshua and that he “enjoys his craft”, while also labelling him a “gentleman”.

While Joshua has discussed his job and how it is perceived by the public.

“Some people may not understand it and I realise in this life is that 99 per cent of the population are civilised people,” Joshua explained.

“The job I've chosen is for the uncivilised. This is a sport of combat and war.

“We're not civilised people, we're warriors, and I love it.

“No matter what the tactics are, no matter how much you study, no matter how much you think you can beat me, I'm just there to win.

“I'm there to do a job, and that's the fighter's mentality.”

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