Joe Joyce lost a unanimous decision to Filip Hrgovic after ten rounds in Manchester, marking his fourth loss in five fights.
‘The Juggernaut’ suffered a major setback in 2023 when Zhilei Zhang halted all his momentum with back-to-back stoppage wins, the second of which was particularly brutal. Joyce – who lost his interim heavyweight title in the process – returned six months later, beating the lower-level Kash Ali but unable to get stop him until the dying seconds.
Then came a close affair with Derek Chisora, who rolled back the years to beat Joyce and breathe life into his own campaign. Last night, the 39-year-old faced fellow Olympian Hrgovic, who stepped in on late notice when original opponent Dillian Whyte pulled out with an injury.
The Croatian heavyweight, on five weeks’ notice, visibly tired after a strong first round and was hampered by a cut eye, allowing Joyce’s pressure and output to take over at the middle stage. However, Hrgovic’s cleaner work throughout and more impressive finish saw him a comfortable points winner on the cards.
Speaking post-fight, Joyce reflected on the action.
“I thought it was a close fight … It was great fight. It was tough getting in there and landing the shots. I seen his eye opening up so I was trying to go for that a bit and accumulate the punches. But he was good stepping back. I’ll have to watch it back to truly critique my performance.”
Asked if he will fight on, he confirmed what he had said in the ring that this was not the end.
“Yeah, I’m still enjoying what I’m doing. I feel good. It’s a tough sport.”
Joyce may now look to reschedule the Whyte fight.
