OTTO Wallin has admitted that he had a much more difficult time fighting Anthony Joshua than he did against Tyson Fury.
The Swedish heavyweight boxer has lost to both fighters but he has rated two-time world champion Joshua higher than current World Boxing Council champion Fury.
Joshua, who has dual Nigerian and British citizenship, dominated Wallin from the first round and forced a stoppage after just five rounds in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on December 23.
In his first interview since his second career defeat, Wallin refused to make any excuses and praised the former World Boxing Association, International Boxing Federation and World Boxing Organisation champion for a great performance.
“I know that he is one of the best fighters out there,” Wallin told Boxing News.
“I really have no excuses, he was just better. He did really well, used his reach well, and he hit me with some really good shots. He was just better.
“I think he had a good game plan. He felt like a very good fighter, and obviously, it was a much tougher fight than what I had with Tyson Fury. Maybe he’s found his home with Ben Davison (new trainer).”
Wallin’s nose was pouring with blood after round five, and his long-time coach, Joey Gamache, made the decision to throw in the towel.
The 33-year-old didn’t dispute the call at the time, and nine days later he still feels his trainer did the right thing.
“I didn’t disagree [with the stoppage],” Wallin added.
“Joey told me, ‘I’m going to stop it.’ And I didn’t say anything. Joey has been with me for ten years, he’s seen me training and in almost all my fights – he’s never pulled me out of anything.
“I trust Joey, he is always looking out for me. I feel very happy that I have a trainer who puts my health first. There’s a life after boxing, so I’m really appreciative that he is looking out for me.”
Wallin confirmed he suffered a fractured nose during the fight, and revealed he has already undergone surgery to repair it.
“I’ve gotta heal up,” he said when asked what he plans to do next.
“I’m going to the hospital on Tuesday to deal with my nose.
“I had a surgery after the fight, and I might need another one.”
