Anthony Joshua vs. Francis Ngannou: Heavyweight Fight for Boxing-MMA Supremacy
The highly anticipated heavyweight fight between Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou is set to take place on Friday, March 8. This clash between the worlds of boxing and mixed martial arts is shaping up to be more than just a crossover event. The winner of this bout will earn a shot at Tyson Fury’s undisputed world heavyweight title, assuming Fury still holds it after his upcoming fight against Oleksandr Usyk on May 18.
For Ngannou, a former UFC champion, this fight is an opportunity to prove himself as a formidable boxer. In his pro boxing debut last October, Ngannou delivered a stunning performance against Tyson Fury. Despite losing by a controversial split decision, Ngannou scored the only knockdown of the fight and landed punishing blows. He believes he still has more to show the world and is eager to continue his training and learning.
Joshua, on the other hand, sees this fight as a chance to continue his re-ascension in the boxing world. After suffering back-to-back losses to Usyk, Joshua has won three straight bouts. However, a loss to Ngannou would cast serious doubt on his ability to reclaim the championship belts he lost in 2021. Despite the pressure, Joshua is looking forward to the occasion and is determined to come out on top.
The fight card is set to begin at 11 a.m. ET, with the main event expected to take place around 5:50 p.m. ET. Fans can catch the coverage exclusively on DAZN through live streaming or PPV for $39.99.
The undercard features several exciting matchups, including Rey Vargas defending his WBC featherweight title against Nick Ball and Israil Madrimov competing for the vacant WBA super welterweight title against Magomed Kurbanov. The WBO heavyweight championship belt, currently held by Zhilei Zhang, will also be on the line in a bout against Joseph Parker.
The fight is taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and the choice of location is no surprise. The Saudis are known for their enthusiasm and financial investment in heavyweight boxing. It is reported that Joshua and Ngannou will be paid over $70 million combined for this fight, further solidifying Saudi Arabia’s position as a rising force in the boxing world.
As the fight approaches, both fighters have received support and predictions from various sources. Legendary boxer Manny Pacquiao accompanied Rey Vargas on his ring walk, showing his endorsement of the Mexican fighter. Meanwhile, Tyson Fury, who has first-hand experience with Ngannou’s power, believes that Joshua has the advantage if he utilizes his jab and footwork effectively.
The stage is set for an epic showdown between two heavyweight giants. Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou will battle it out to prove their dominance in the world of combat sports. With so much at stake and the potential for a thrilling fight, fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the moment these two warriors step into the ring.