Joshua Dismisses Criticism of Ngannou’s Boxing Debut, Calling It a Legitimate Test

Anthony Joshua has firmly rejected the notion that his upcoming fight against MMA star Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia on Friday is a mere spectacle. The former heavyweight champion insists that Ngannou deserves the opportunity and is a legitimate challenge in the ring.

This will be Joshua’s first appearance in the ring since his December victory over Otto Wallin, which saw him triumph in a five-round contest. With this fight, Joshua aims to move closer to securing a long-awaited title clash with Tyson Fury.

Ngannou, who gave Tyson Fury a tough challenge in their October bout, even knocking the WBC champion down in the third round before losing by a controversial split decision, is someone Joshua respects as a formidable opponent.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Joshua stated: “This is not a gimmick. It’s not just a fight to attract broadcasters or for entertainment. This is a serious contest, and Ngannou is putting up a good fight against a fighter considered by many to be a generational talent.”

Joshua continued by praising Ngannou’s potential, acknowledging that for a fighter to be deemed world-class, they must remain at the top for a considerable time. “Ngannou is an athlete with immense potential,” he remarked.

Reflecting on his earlier views of MMA fighters crossing over into boxing, which gained attention following Conor McGregor’s loss to Floyd Mayweather in 2017, Joshua admitted that he initially saw it as a gimmick. However, he now believes that certain MMA fighters, like Ngannou, can transition effectively to boxing.

Joshua concluded, “It’s good for us fighters and broadcasters alike, as we’re about to see me and Ngannou clash in the ring.”