Frank Warren, promoter for Joe Joyce, the former WBO interim heavyweight champion, has commented on his fighter`s defeat by Filip Hrgovic.
Warren believes it will be very challenging for Joyce to return to the top level of the heavyweight division. He acknowledged Joyce`s distinguished career, highlighting his courage and achievements as an amateur, including an Olympic silver medal. Warren suggested that Joyce will need to consider his next steps carefully, noting the impact of age in boxing.
Expressing his surprise at the fight, Warren said, “When Joyce was hit a few times, I thought he might lose early, but he withstood the punches.” He also praised Joyce`s popularity, stating, “The audience loves him, he`s a nice guy.” Despite the judges` decision against Joyce, Warren affirmed his support, saying, “I`m not going to criticize him when he`s down.”
Hrgovic defeated Joyce by unanimous decision on April 5th in Manchester.
