Francis Ngannou’s upcoming boxing match against Anthony Joshua has stirred excitement in the sporting world, with many industry professionals expressing their astonishment at the announcement. The former UFC heavyweight champion will go head-to-head with the two-time heavyweight champion in a highly anticipated 10-round showdown in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
While an official date for the bout has yet to be disclosed, fans and experts can mark their calendars for January 15 when a kickoff press conference will take place in London. The event will undoubtedly provide further insight into the clash between these two formidable fighters.
Ngannou’s transition from UFC to boxing has garnered significant attention, as the Cameroonian fighter left a notable impact in his debut against Tyson Fury. Despite initially being written off by critics, Ngannou managed to push Fury to his limits, knocking down the lineal heavyweight king in the third round. Although the match concluded with a controversial split decision in favor of Fury, Ngannou’s unwavering determination and skill showcased his potential in the boxing ring.
Ngannou’s representative, Marquel Martin, disclosed to MMA Fighting in November that his client earned significantly more for the Fury bout than during his tenure as the UFC heavyweight champion. This has undoubtedly fueled the anticipation for Ngannou’s upcoming clash against Joshua, as fans anticipate the potential magnitude of his payday.
Reactions to the news of Ngannou’s upcoming fight have poured in from all corners of the sporting world. Industry professionals have expressed their admiration and astonishment at Ngannou’s ability to secure yet another blockbuster fight. Prominent figures from the boxing and MMA communities weighed in on the significance of this matchup.
Carlos Ferreira, a professional MMA fighter, remarked, Ngannou is gangster AF! His determination and skill are second to none. This fight is going to be monumental, and I can’t wait to see him face Joshua in the ring.
Renowned boxing promoter Eddie Hearn shared his thoughts, stating, This is an exciting turn of events for boxing fans worldwide. Ngannou has proven himself to be a formidable opponent, and his matchup against Joshua will undoubtedly be a spectacle not to be missed.
Fan reactions have been flooded across various social media platforms, reflecting the enthusiasm and anticipation surrounding the bout. Many voiced their support for Ngannou, commending his tenacity and applauding his decision to take on the boxing world’s heavyweight elite.
As the sporting world eagerly awaits further details about the fight, one thing is clear: Francis Ngannou’s journey from UFC to professional boxing continues to captivate audiences around the globe. With an extraordinary performance against Tyson Fury under his belt and the prospect of a colossal payday, Ngannou’s upcoming clash against Anthony Joshua has all the ingredients for a truly unforgettable spectacle in the world of combat sports.