Joshua vs. Ngannou Bout Threatens Secured Title Shots
Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou, both with secured title shots on the horizon, have opted to face each other this spring. Joshua, recently named the WBN Comeback of the Year, aims to build on his successful 2023, highlighted by a knockout victory over Otto Wallin on 'Day of Reckoning' in Saudi Arabia. Despite the fallout from a scrapped Deontay Wilder fight, Joshua's active and victorious year positioned him for significant opportunities. While a vacant IBF ruling could have set the stage for a summer showdown with Filip Hrgovic, Joshua has chosen the high-stakes clash with ex-UFC star Ngannou on March 8. The upcoming event, spanning ten rounds, bears resemblance to the Tyson Fury vs. Ngannou show in October, where Ngannou made waves by putting Fury on the canvas. Initially expected to be a Fury rematch over the summer, Ngannou's decision to face Joshua in Riyadh adds a layer of unpredictability to the heavyweight narrative. Promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed the bout, stating, "Tonight, we confirm it’s a Done Deal! Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou collide on a huge night in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia." Further details will be unveiled in a press conference scheduled for January 15 in London. However, the strategic move to pit Joshua against Ngannou poses significant risks for both fighters. If Ngannou pulls off an upset, Joshua risks losing his standing in the IBF pecking order, eliminating the opportunity to face Hrgovic for a vacant title. Ngannou, despite earning a WBC ranking after a defeat, faces the precarious position of potentially losing his spot in the rating system with a second loss in boxing. Criticized by fans for a 0-1 ranking by WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman, Ngannou's eligibility to challenge Fury in a rematch is now in question, further adding intrigue to the already complex heavyweight scenario. The strategic move to rank Ngannou was geared toward a coveted green and gold belt clash with Fury. However, a loss to the in-form Joshua could reshape the heavyweight landscape, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the outcome of this high-stakes showdown. #AnthonyJoshua #FrancisNgannou #HeavyweightBoxing #TitleShot #RiyadhSeason #EddieHearn #SportsNews #HeavyweightShowdown
