Anthony Joshua’s latest sparring partner German Albon Pervizaj drafted in to replicate Ruiz Jr’s rapid hand speed – The Sun

ANTHONY JOSHUA has brought in Albon Pervizaj to be his latest sparring partner as he aims to prepare for Andy Ruiz Jr’s rapid hand speed.

The German, 24, has been roped in to help AJ as he aims to get his revenge on Ruiz after his shock defeat in June.

Joshua is worried about the Mexican star's lightning-quick hands, with unbeaten Pervizaj thought to be the perfect training buddy.

Pervizaj boasts an impressive 12-0 record in his fledgling career, including nine wins via KO.

Joshua was left flummoxed during his build-up to June's fight, as he was expected to fight Jarrell Miller in New York.

To prepare, the Brit star, 30, was sparring with 6ft 4ins, 300lbs stars to replicate the threat posed.

But after Miller pulled out after failing multiple drugs tests, Ruiz was called up at the 11th hour – bringing with him a far different skill set.

Ruiz is a much quicker prospect, especially having drastically slimmed down in recent months since their first fight.

Earlier this week, Ruiz showed off his incredibly quick hands, with AJ's fans left fearing the worst.

Joshua himself has lost a fair few pounds of pure muscle as he aims to be more agile and fleet of foot in the ring for December's fight in Saudi Arabia.

And the Watford fighter has a full 12-week regime ready as he prepares to prove to the world the defeat in New York was a one-off.

Joshua has also reportedly been working with US star Timothy Moten – seen as another Ruiz-esque fighter.

The 5-0 fighter has been working with Angel Fernandez, the man said to be drafted in by AJ to get one over on Ruiz.

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