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Boxing legend backs Joshua to beat Usyk
Anthony Joshua was unsuccessful in his two fights with Oleksandr Usyk in 2021 and 2022, but boxing legend Nigel Benn believes if they meet for a third time, it will be ‘AJ’ who comes out on top.
Joshua is back in action on March 8, as he goes up against former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou on March 8. The Brit heads into the fight in good form, having earned wins over Otto Wallin, Robert Helenius and Jermaine Franklin in the last 12 months.
The latest win over Wallin came in December, with Joshua linking up with trainer Ben Davison for that bout, securing a dominant stoppage victory after five rounds.
Benn told Fruity Slots that he feels the new partnership with Davison has seen ‘AJ’ return to his best and would see him triumph over Usyk if they fought again.
“I’m so happy AJ looked like his old self, he went a bit gun-shy. Ben Davison looks to have brought it out of him. If he fights like that against Usyk a third time, I think he puts it on him, with that right attitude, with that right frame of mind, I think he would do him.
“I was very impressed in his last fight, he can go on to fight Fury and Usyk and call it a day. He’s got Ngannou, but who really is Ngannou, did he fight the best version of Fury? Where was Fury’s mind at? I think AJ will do a number on him and if AJ hits him he will hurt him. I think AJ is too powerful for Ngannou.”
Usyk returns to the ring on May 18 for his rescheduled undisputed showdown with Tyson Fury, but one of his coaches is still doubtful about the injury that caused the delay.
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**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
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