The much-anticipated face-off between former unified world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua and former UFC champion Francis Ngannou is officially set to take place in Saudi Arabia later this year. This exciting announcement comes after the confirmation of the planned fight by promotional teams Matchroom and Queensberry on Friday night.
Queensberry Promotions took to Twitter to share the thrilling news, stating that Anthony Joshua vs. Francis Ngannou is signed to take place during Riyadh Season. While the exact fight date is yet to be disclosed, a kick-off press conference is scheduled for January 15 to unveil more details. Speculations suggest that the clash between Joshua and Ngannou could unfold on Friday, March 8, in Riyadh.
Also, read; US Expresses Deep Concern Over Burundi President’s Disturbing Comments on Stoning Gay Individuals
Initially slated to face Deontay Wilder, Joshua’s plans shifted after Wilder’s points loss to Joseph Parker in December. Joshua, coming off a dominant fifth-round stoppage of Otto Wallin in December, expressed his readiness to take on any challenger. The British boxer’s impressive performance secured his third consecutive victory last year.
Francis Ngannou, a formidable force in both boxing and UFC, made headlines with a notable knockdown of Tyson Fury in his first professional boxing bout last October. Despite a controversial points victory for Fury in Riyadh, Ngannou’s remarkable display earned him a spot in the WBC’s top 10 title contenders.
As the boxing world eagerly awaits the clash between Joshua and Ngannou, Riyadh Season is set to host this thrilling matchup, adding another chapter to the storied history of heavyweight showdowns. Stay tuned for further details to be unveiled during the kick-off press conference on January 15.
