Wasn't he a good king? Maybe too much of a good thing as the champion become the challenger aiming for another shot at the belts.
And now Anthony Joshua is seeking to get his career back on track when he faces off against American Jermaine Franklin.
The man who held the belts for the best part of six years is now seeking his redemption arc. The mercurial Oleksandr Usyk was too good in their rematch in Saudi Arabia last August, the first time in seven years Joshua has been out of the world title picture. And let's be honest, a win will breathe new life into a potential clash with Tyson Fury.
The 33-year-old has been keen to usher in a new era for his career after back to back defeats as he looks to get back in the title picture, stating: "We’re only looking forward and I see a bright future and that kind of keeps me in good spirits." But could there be another bodyblow to the Englishman's career if he slips up against unfancied Franklin? And how can you watch the bout? Record Sport gives you all the details.
When and where is Anthony Joshua vs Jermaine Franklin?
The fight takes place at the O2 Arena in London on April 1. The live coverage and undercard will start at 7pm.
What time does the fight start?
Expect the ring walks for the main event to start around 10.30pm. It could run later depending on the undercard bouts.
How can I watch the fight?
The fight will not take place on traditional TV channels. The fight will be shown exclusively on streaming service DAZN. Joshua has agreed a five-year partnership on the American streaming platform.
Joshua vs Franklin will be included in the £9.99 per month DAZN saver subscription. The app can be downloaded to Smart TVs, games consoles, tablets and mobile.
What are the odds?
Anthony Joshua goes into the fight as heavy favourite, with OddsChecker making him the 1/12 favourite. If you fancy the dark horse you can back Jermaine Franklin at 7/1, while a draw can be backed at Draw 25/1.
Who is on the undercard?
Fabio Wardley vs Michael Polite Coffie
Galal Yafai vs Moises Calleros
Austin Williams vs River Wilson-Bent
Campbell Hatton vs Louis Fielding
John Hedges vs Daniel Bocianski
Jordan Flynn vs Kane Barker
Juergen Uldedaj vs Benoit Huber
Ziyad Almaayouf vs Georgi Velichkov
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