In his fight for the IBF world title against Daniel Dubois on Saturday, Anthony Joshua hopes to display his “gladiatorial spirit.” On Wednesday, Joshua worked out in public at Wembley Arena in an attempt to win the title of three-time world champion. Ahead of his Wembley return, the Watford player appeared in excellent form. Joshua’s first fight at Wembley since his 2018 stoppage victory over Alexander Povetkin will take place on Saturday.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Joshua said: “I feel like I’m ready for my fight, the canvas is good, the size is good, I just need to get my wraps and my gloves on and I can fight today.

“There’s no emotions, I’m just here. I’m expecting more media, more talking, more training most importantly and walking into the ring showing 96,000 people my gladiatorial spirit.”

Inspiring the next generation 👊#JoshuaDubois | @DAZNBoxing | #RiyadhSeasonCard pic.twitter.com/oLQzPme3LC

— Matchroom Boxing (@MatchroomBoxing) September 18, 2024

Joshua was accompanied in the ring by members of his first amateur boxing club Finchley ABC.

“It means everything, it’s what it’s about, opening doors for people like people did for me too,” Joshua said when asked about the importance of giving back to the next generation.

“This is being on the big stage, they’re the boys and girls from my club, we’re a local town and so I thought I’d bring them down.”

Joshua (right) with members of the Finchley Boxing Club (Bradley Collyer/PA)

Dubois appeared heavier on fight week than he did in his previous victory over Croatian Filip Hrgovic.

The 27-year-old, who was handed Oleksandr Usyk’s vacated IBF belt in the summer, will look to defend the title in what appears to be a heavy-hitting match-up in front of a sold-out crowd.

Speaking after his workout, Dubois told Sky Sports: “It’s great, I’m ready to fight and I’m in a good place at the moment. This is all part of the pre-fight ritual, I’m going through the motions and just building up my energy for Saturday.

“I know I need to go to another level, my very best and I can’t wait for the challenge on Saturday. I’m ready to fight.”

Wednesday’s workouts gave a chance for the likes of Hamzah Sheeraz, Joshua Buatsi, Tyler Denny and Josh Kelly to showcase their ability to supporters ahead of this weekend’s fights.

I feel like I’m ready for my fight, the canvas is good, the size is good, I just need to get my wraps and my gloves on and I can fight today.Anthony Joshua

Riyadh Season hosted a handful of small-rounded bouts following the public workouts.

Chris Kongo was among those victorious when he eased to a 59-55 win over Jacob Quinn.

When asked what it was like to be part of Joshua v Dubois, the London man said: “It’s history, how can I not say yes to an opportunity like this?

“I’m happy because this is what I do. I want a big fight next, I want a European, interim or world title shot.”