Fame can be fatal – Anthony Joshua warns Katie Taylor against the hype

Anthony Joshua has warned Matchroom stablemate Katie Taylor that fame can be fatal.

Having changed the shape and profile of female amateur boxing, Taylor is now leading a pro female revolution.

Since turning over in 2016, the Olympic gold medal winner has proved her superior class by picking up two world titles but has also played a part in increasing respect levels, pay packets, profile, and media coverage for female fighting and fighters.

Indeed, promoter of both, Eddie Hearn, believes Taylor, who will look to add a third world title to her collection in Philadelphia tomorrow, is well on her way to becoming a boxing megastar irrespective of gender.

The unified world heavyweight champion and massive crossover star has experience in that field and has warned Taylor that profile and fame don’t guarantee success.

The IBF and WBA lightweight world champion certainly isn’t one for the hype and it’s clear that legacy not fame motivates her.

Joshua, who operates off a ‘stay hungry, stay humble’ seems aware of that, but still warns of the dangers of getting caught up in any further fanfare.

The giant Londoner with a giant profile and bank balance points out that love for the sport is key and warns fighters should be aware popularity counts for nothing inside the ring.

“She’s very calming, which is working for her, she’s a beast in the ring, and just keep on doing what you’re doing,” said Joshua

“Some people talk a good game on the outside, but they don’t fight like it on the inside.”

“Without loving the game, you’re never going to acquire the fame,” rhymed Taylor’s fellow London Olympic gold medallist.

Such is the run of fights Taylor will embark on should she beat Volante, her profile and earnings will inevitable sky-rocket.

Major clashes with Delfine Persoon, Amanda Serrano, Cecilia Braekhus, and maybe even some current UFC stars will bring in big money and big attention for the DAZN-backed Bray woman.

Joshua is backing Taylor to continue thriving despite this and noted how “she’s done everything from the Olympics, fought in Ireland, fought in the UK, fought in the States, so naturally her dedication to the sport is taking her around the world anyway, and getting her the fame and recognition that you do need in the sport.”

“Don’t make that your priority and the principle of why you do what you do, because fame and being popular does not win fights.”