In a groundbreaking announcement, it has been confirmed that British boxing sensation Anthony Joshua will go head-to-head with former UFC champion Francis Ngannou in a highly anticipated heavyweight contest set to take place on March 8th in Saudi Arabia.
The confirmation comes ahead of a news conference scheduled for later today in London, where both Joshua and Ngannou are expected to address the media and fans, building the excitement for what promises to be an electrifying clash in the ring.
Francis Ngannou, the 37-year-old MMA powerhouse, made his professional boxing debut just a few months ago in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Despite knocking down WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, Ngannou narrowly lost in a closely contested decision. Now, he aims to make a significant impact in the boxing world by facing the formidable Anthony Joshua.
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Anthony Joshua, the 34-year-old former unified heavyweight champion, is coming off a victorious performance in Riyadh where he stopped Otto Wallin on the same card. With plans for a showdown against Deontay Wilder disrupted due to Wilder’s points defeat by Joseph Parker, Joshua is determined to maintain his momentum against Ngannou.
Originally, Saudi organizers had set their sights on hosting Joshua against Deontay Wilder on March 9th, but Wilder’s recent defeat altered those plans. Instead, Joshua will now face Ngannou on March 8th in a bout that captures the attention of boxing and MMA fans alike.
The decision to schedule the fight on a Friday aims to avoid a clash with the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, scheduled to be held in Jeddah on Saturday, March 9th. This strategic move ensures that fans can enjoy both the adrenaline-fueled heavyweight bout and the prestigious Formula 1 race without any scheduling conflicts.
As the boxing world eagerly anticipates this unique crossover event, the clash between Joshua and Ngannou is poised to be a historic moment in sports entertainment. With both fighters bringing their unique skill sets to the ring, March 8th will witness a spectacle that transcends the boundaries of traditional combat sports.
