Anthony Joshua will fight Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia March 8, 2024.
Joseph Parker disrupted the anticipated clash between Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder by delivering a masterful performance last month, halting plans for Joshua’s next fight.
All three fighters, including Joshua and Wilder, participated in the “Day of Reckoning” event in Saudi Arabia on Christmas Eve. Reports had suggested that Joshua and Wilder were set for a showdown in early March, contingent on their victories in their respective bouts.
Despite Joshua’s impressive knockout win over Otto Wallin in the main event, Parker’s outstanding boxing clinic against Wilder upended Joshua’s immediate future plans.
Contrary to expectations, it is not Parker who will step into the ring to avenge his 2018 loss to Joshua. Respected combat sports journalist Ariel Helwani reported that Joshua will face former UFC champion Francis Ngannou in his next bout. Matchroom Boxing, Joshua’s promoters, have officially confirmed the fight.
MMA Junkie reports that the bout is scheduled for March 9, with an official press conference expected later this month to finalize the details.
Ngannou, known for his prowess in mixed martial arts, impressed in his professional boxing debut with a split decision loss to Tyson Fury last year. Despite the loss, he earned the WBC’s No. 10 ranking, making him a compelling opponent for Joshua after the Wilder fight fell through.
The other potential opponents initially considered for Joshua—Filip Hrgovic and Zhieli Zhang—might now become intriguing prospects for Joseph Parker as he seeks to climb back into title contention.
Zhang, also known as ‘Big Bang’ due to his explosive style, is eager for a shot at Parker and is willing to put his title as interim WBO world champion on the line.
“Right now, he’s hot. Everybody is looking at him like he’s really good. If I can’t get any of those guys then Joseph Parker would be a good option,” Zhang expressed.
While Hrgovic’s next move remains uncertain, Fury (WBC) and Usyk (WBA, WBO, IBF) are set to meet in Saudi Arabia next month to determine the first undisputed heavyweight champion since 1999, with a two-way rematch clause expected in their contract.
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