• London 2012 Olympics

Joshua joins the growing list of Olympic hopefuls

ESPN staff
October 6, 2011
Despite being a relative novice, Anthony Joshua beat Roberto Cammarelle at the World Amateur Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan © PA Photos
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Anthony Joshua has boosted Great Britain ahead of next year's Olympics by becoming the fifth boxer to qualify for London 2012.

The 21-year-old super-heavyweight claimed a narrow 15-13 decision over Olympic and two-time world champion Roberto Cammarelle to reach the semi-finals of the World Amateur Championships in Azerbaijan.

The accomplishment is all the more impressive when you consider what the 6ft 7in youngster has been through. Joshua, from Golders Green in north London, was suspended this year from the Britain squad after he was charged with possession of drugs - although the charges have since been dropped. There was further disappointment when he was stopped at the European Championships in June, but those at Britain's team base in Sheffield have stood by him and he is now reaping the rewards.

"The hard work starts now," Joshua told the Times. "It was good to qualify, but I wanted to take things step by step. Now I've got the bronze, let's try and take the next step.

"The young talent's coming through, I just have to keep working hard. Step by step you believe it. I can't get too caught up on the victory, this tournament keeps going until Saturday, so I've got to keep working and trying to progress. Next time hopefully we can knock him out."

In reaching the semi-finals, Joshua is assured of a bronze medal at the very least, with fellow Brits Luke Campbell, Tom Stalker and Andrew Selby joining him in Saturday's semi-finals.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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