When Joshua steps into the ring with Francis Ngannou this March, it won’t be for any official belts, as reported by mmafighting.com. Yet, Joshua sees this bout against the former UFC heavyweight champion as an opportunity to reaffirm his standing as the best in his division.
While Joshua has held multiple world titles in boxing, he’s been without gold around his waist since his losses to Oleksandr Usyk. A win against Ngannou could potentially pave the way for Joshua to challenge for boxing titles again. However, for now, he’s solely focused on preparing for Ngannou as if he’s the ultimate opponent to conquer.
In Joshua’s own words during The MMA Hour, “Ngannou is my undisputed fight. Because you’re only as good as your last fight, and I respect him a lot. He ain’t easy money. He’s a hard night’s work. And you know what’s crazy? So am I. I’m a hard night’s work for anyone. So let’s go, it’s going to be fireworks.”
Despite Ngannou’s dominance in the octagon, Joshua boasts extensive boxing experience. With a career record of 27-3, Joshua has faced top-tier opponents like Andy Ruiz Jr. and Usyk, whom he avenged in a rematch.
Initially expected to face Deontay Wilder, Joshua’s plans shifted after Wilder’s loss to Joseph Parker. Ngannou emerged as the chosen opponent, presenting a compelling matchup for Joshua.
Expressing his respect for Ngannou’s boxing skills, Joshua acknowledged the differences between himself and Tyson Fury, who Ngannou faced in his pro boxing debut. While Fury emerged victorious, Joshua remains focused on his own strengths and strategies for the upcoming fight.
Scheduled for March 8 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the Joshua versus Ngannou bout promises to be a spectacle worth watching.