Ex-mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Francis Ngannou is set to step into the boxing ring against Anthony Joshua in a heavyweight contest scheduled for March 8th in Saudi Arabia.
The announcement comes after Ngannou’s professional boxing debut in Riyadh last October, where he faced WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, delivering a knockdown but ultimately losing a closely contested decision.
Ngannou, at 37 years old, has quickly transitioned from the world of mixed martial arts to professional boxing. His October debut showcased his adaptability and prowess in the boxing ring, making him a legitimate contender in the heavyweight division.
The original plan for Joshua was to face Deontay Wilder on March 9th, but Wilder’s points defeat by Joseph Parker in December forced organizers to reevaluate.
Joshua’s victory over Otto Wallin on the same card, coupled with the determination to keep the momentum going, led to the creation of this unexpected matchup with Ngannou. As Joshua prepares to take on Ngannou, another blockbuster bout is on the horizon.
Tyson Fury is set to face Oleksandr Usyk on February 17th, with the winner aiming to become the first undisputed heavyweight champion since 1999.
The heavyweight division is currently experiencing a resurgence, with these high-profile matchups capturing the attention of fight fans worldwide.
To avoid a clash with the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, scheduled for March 9th in Jeddah, the Joshua-Ngannou bout will take place on a Friday. Organizers are keen on ensuring that both events receive the attention they deserve, catering to both boxing and Formula 1 enthusiasts.
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