Eddie Hearn has dubbed Francis Ngannou a “serious contender” for a bout with Anthony Joshua.
A crossover event featuring Anthony Joshua taking on MMA’s Francis Ngannou in the squared circle is on the table, says the fight’s architect, Eddie Hearn.
Ngannou made waves in the boxing realm with his narrow loss by split decision to the WBC’s reigning heavyweight king, Tyson Fury, in a debut that ruffled feathers in Saudi Arabia.
Post-fight, Hearn’s communications with Ngannou’s representatives hinted at future possibilities.
“We’re laying out AJ’s roadmap for the coming year and Ngannou’s on our radar,” Hearn disclosed to the BBC.
There’s talk of bringing the clash to Saudi Arabia or other affluent Middle East nations. “Imagine the scene in Africa – if the finances align, it would be monumental,” he pondered.
Hearn mused, “Imagine two behemoths, sculpted like Greek gods, trading blows. It’s a tantalizing prospect we’re open to exploring.”
Ngannou, 37, defied odds by flooring Fury in the third round, leaving a lasting impression and snagging a win on one judge’s scorecard.
“The MMA enthusiasts are convinced Ngannou can topple any fighter,” Hearn shared on BBC Radio 5 Live.
Recalling a meeting with Ngannou, Hearn recounted, “He was all for pitching an epic in Africa. AJ, at that time, was laser-focused on world heavyweight glory.”
“I countered with, ‘If he nearly bested Tyson Fury, he’s certainly a legitimate challenger.’ MMA fans argue Ngannou would make quick work of AJ. To them, I say, ‘Bring it on, because that’s just not how it would go down.'”
Joshua, Wilder, Jones, and the prospect of a Fury rematch – what’s on the horizon for Ngannou?
Hearn proclaims the Fury-Ngannou bout has solidified his belief that Joshua, 34, a two-time heavyweight titleholder, would vanquish Fury should they clash.
“After witnessing that showdown, my conviction has only grown – AJ is the one to beat Fury,” Hearn stated confidently.
“He seems to have lost some of his punch resilience, perhaps he’s not quite the titan he was. The grueling duels with Deontay Wilder may have left their mark.”
A marquee match-up between Fury and Oleksandr Usyk was penned for 23 December, but per Sport News Center, that’s now up in the air, with Fury’s squad angling for a February face-off following the exhaustive victory over Ngannou.
Still, Joshua is eager to enter the ring pre-Christmas.
“We’re counting down seven weeks to Saturday. AJ’s keen on a 23 December fight,” Hearn remarked. “We’re under no illusions it won’t be a blockbuster, but AJ’s intent on a triple-header this year.”
Benn-Eubank Fight Could Ignite in January
Hearn had previously expressed strong interest from both parties in a Conor Benn vs. Chris Eubank Jr showdown.
Scheduled a year ago, on the historic backdrop of their fathers’ rivalry from 30 years prior, the fight fell through due to Benn’s failed drug screenings.
As it stands, Benn is without a UK fighting license.
In more recent discussions, Hearn hinted: “The Eubank vs. Benn bout could be slated for 27 January, opening up a window for AJ in early January.”
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Joshua-Ngannou Fight
Is Anthony Joshua considering a fight against Francis Ngannou?
Yes, Anthony Joshua is contemplating a boxing match against Francis Ngannou, as confirmed by promoter Eddie Hearn.
Where could this potential fight take place?
The fight could occur in Saudi Arabia, other Middle Eastern countries, or even Africa, depending on financial arrangements.
What makes Francis Ngannou a credible opponent for Joshua?
Ngannou’s impressive performance against Tyson Fury, where he knocked him down and convinced one judge he won, adds to his credibility as a challenger.
How confident is Eddie Hearn in Joshua’s chances against Fury?
Hearn is even more certain that Anthony Joshua would defeat Tyson Fury after witnessing the Ngannou-Fury bout.
When might this potential fight happen?
While there’s no fixed date, Joshua is eager to fight before Christmas, and there’s a possibility of it taking place in early January.
Is there any update on the Conor Benn vs. Chris Eubank Jr. fight?
The Benn-Eubank Jr. fight could be scheduled for January 27, providing a potential window for an early January fight for Anthony Joshua.
More about Joshua-Ngannou Fight
- Anthony Joshua considering Francis Ngannou fight, says Eddie Hearn
- Ngannou impresses in debut against Tyson Fury
- Eddie Hearn’s insights on Joshua vs. Fury
- Conor Benn vs. Chris Eubank Jr. fight update
4 comments
Hearn says AJ’s punch resistnce less, but I still bet on AJ!
Ngannou ain’t no jke, knocked down Fury! AJ gotta train hrd.
Can’t wait for Benn vs Eubank, hope it happens!
wow, AJ vs ngannou, tht’d be awsm! wanna c that in africa!