The 35-year-old has yet to lose as a professional, but he is desperate to put on a show this weekend, with his team eager to jump on any world title shot in the coming months.
Joyce has already been confirmed as the next WBO mandatory challenger after Oleksandr Usyk, but he will still need to be at his best to get past the resilient Takam.
Joyce’s Stamina to Be Put to the Test
In his 12-fight career, Joyce has often handled business within the scheduled distance.
In fairness, his nickname, ‘Juggernaut’, is appropriate, with the former Olympian stopping 11 of his 12 opponents.
Only Bryant Jennings got to hear the final bell, and Joyce has stopped the likes of Bermane Stiverne, Michael Wallisch and Daniel Dubois.
Joyce’s stamina is, therefore, still to be really tested, and Takam has all the tools to trouble him. The Frenchman was last stopped in 2018, and he has won his last three fights on points.
Takam’s best years are definitely behind him, but he is usually competitive, and he should give Joyce plenty to think about.
A late stoppage looks the way to go, and Joyce is 12/5 to win inside rounds 7-9, while he can be backed at 9/2 to win inside rounds 10-12.
Joyce to Keep It Sensible
With Joyce potentially one fight away from his first world title shot, do not expect him to be reckless in Wembley on Saturday night.
IBF, WBO and WBA world champion Anthony Joshua could be next, while Usyk will be doing all he can to win the heavyweight showdown on September 25.
Joyce says he will find a way to win before preparing himself at a world title shot, but Takam has already proven how durable he is. He went ten rounds with Joshua and eight with Derek Chisora, but Joyce’s height advantage should mean he boxes on the back foot.
If he sticks to a game plan, Joyce can keep the fight at range and punish Takam as he rushes in. Takam has promised to deliver a “sensational” knockout, but Joyce has shown a granite chin in the past, and he has never touched the canvas.
Even if the fight turns into a war, Joyce’s power is well documented, and he should be able to get Takam’s respect and wear him down as the fight goes on.
Over 8.5 rounds appeals at odds of 25/27, and Joyce should get the job done on what could be a career-defining night.
*All odds correct at time of writing
