Louis Theroux Interviews Anthony Joshua on BBC Two
In the first episode of series two of "Louis Theroux Interviews," renowned British documentary maker Louis Theroux delves into the enigmatic world of heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua. Joshua, who has always been somewhat of an enigma, opened up to Theroux during their candid conversation. Yet, despite the insightful dialogue and moments of vulnerability, viewers are left with a sense that they still don't truly know the man behind the gloves. Theroux explores various aspects of Joshua's life that shape his identity. There's the turbulent past of a rebellious teenager caught with copious amounts of marijuana while wearing his Team GB kit. Then there's the champion, who experienced meteoric success before suffering defeats at the hands of Andy Ruiz Jr and Oleksandr Usyk. Joshua also wears the hat of a businessman, amassing wealth inside and outside the ring. The documentary captures Joshua at a pivotal moment in his career as he fights to regain his standing in the heavyweight division. It includes an intimate interview at his Finchley gym, where Theroux doesn't shy away from asking tough questions about drugs, relationships, criticism, and the risks of head injuries in boxing. While Joshua is forthcoming with his responses, the most compelling moments occur outside the Q&A session. Watching Joshua and Theroux trade impromptu raps while making tea, spar with a punching bag, and discuss a potential celebrity fight against Piers Morgan reveals their genuine rapport. The documentary also offers heartwarming glimpses into Joshua's family life, highlighting the strong bond he shares with his loved ones. One key theme throughout the documentary is Joshua's internal conflict. He vacillates between boasting about revitalizing the heavyweight division and expressing self-doubt after a fight. This inner turmoil leads Theroux to observe, "AJ seemed to be conflicted about the path he was on." While boxing has been Joshua's salvation and he claims to do it for the love of the sport, he's also increasingly conscious of the long-term risks, particularly the dangers of head trauma. In the end, the documentary leaves viewers pondering whether they truly understand the multi-faceted Anthony Joshua any better than before. While Theroux's interview provides valuable insights, the enigma of this celebrated boxer endures, compelling viewers to look forward to unraveling more layers of his identity in future episodes.
