Anthony Joshua opted out of Wednesday’s open workout and decided to invite several kids from the local boxing club to hit the pads instead.
Fans had hoped to catch a glimpse of AJ ahead of his mega-money bout with Otto Wallin on Saturday evening.
However, the two-time heavyweight world champion entered the ring, threw a couple of punches then watch the youngster from the corner.
Joshua explained to DAZN: ‘I’ve been here [Saudi Arabia] a few times now and I understand the vision. It’s promoting boxing to the next generation and it obviously helps.
‘It’s just giving them a chance, an opportunity, I think for them it’ll mean the world. They’re the next generation.
Anthony Joshua opted out of Wednesday’s open workout in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
‘I didn’t really wanna work out today with all due respect, so this was the next best thing. I’d just come from the gym.’
Swedish contender Wallin also sprang a surprise during the session at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh.
In build-up to this fight, much has been made of the fact that AJ will be facing another southpaw following his losses to the left-handed Oleksandr Usyk.
However, Wallin instead decided to shadowbox in an orthodox stance
It seems unlikely that he will fight this way on Saturday night.
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