The boxing world is abuzz with anticipation over a potential blockbuster bout between former two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua (27-3, 24 KOs) and ex-UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, reportedly set for March 16th in Saudi Arabia. This fight, as noted by Gareth A. Davies, is not just a sporting event but a major financial opportunity, drawing significant attention due to the high stakes involved.

Ngannou’s boxing record might show 0-1, but his last performance against Tyson Fury was nothing short of spectacular. He challenged Fury to the brink, leading to a controversial decision that many saw as a favor to maintain Fury’s path towards a fight against Joshua. Ngannou’s power and aggression in the ring suggest that if he brings the same intensity to the fight against Joshua, the outcome could be a decisive knockout. Witness the world boxing champions in action with attractive betting odds from Nextbet. 

Joshua, on the other hand, faces criticisms regarding his stamina and vulnerability (“chinny”), which could play a crucial role in this matchup. Gareth A. Davies mentioned, “There’s a risk. We’ve seen now what Ngannou can do… Can Ngannou hurt AJ? Yes, so there’s jeopardy there.” Despite the risks, the financial lure of the fight in Saudi Arabia seems too significant to pass up.

While traditional boxing fans may have reservations about Ngannou’s boxing credentials and prefer Joshua to face renowned boxers like Zhilei Zhang or Filip Hrgovic, the commercial appeal of a Joshua-Ngannou bout is undeniable. Davies reflects on this, noting Ngannou’s potential to be financially tempting and his capability to cause significant damage in the early rounds of the fight.

The advantage for Joshua, as pointed out by Davies, is the awareness of Ngannou’s capabilities, which means he cannot be underestimated. Ngannou’s performance against Fury, where he displayed his strength and knocking down capability, will be a key factor in this fight.

The outcome of such a high-profile fight is hard to predict. While it presents a significant challenge for Joshua, it also offers an opportunity for him to demonstrate his prowess against a formidable opponent like Ngannou. For Ngannou, it’s a chance to establish himself in the world of boxing beyond his UFC achievements.

As the boxing community eagerly awaits official confirmation, this proposed fight between Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou is shaping up to be more than just a sporting event—it’s a spectacle that could redefine careers and leave an indelible mark on the landscape of combat sports. Get the latest updates from the world of boxing only on Nextbet Sports.