Anthony Joshua is set to face Francis Ngannou in a heavyweight boxing match. The event promises to be a major occasion in the Middle East. Joshua, one of the heavyweight division’s elite, aims at a title challenge comeback. Former UFC champion Ngannou, following his narrow loss to Tyson Fury, steps back in for another significant bout.
Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou Fight Date
The clash between Joshua and Ngannou is officially slated for Friday, March 8, 2024. Promoters and fighters have confirmed the date.
After defeating Otto Wallin at the end of 2023 and training under Ben Davison, Joshua might eye a title opportunity against Filip Hrgovic provided Oleksandr Usyk relinquishes his belt. Ngannou looks forward to an active year with a possible trio of bouts, including another go at Fury, and also has a PFL contract that hints at an MMA fight with Deontay Wilder.
Fight Location
The combatants will square off at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The venue is no stranger to colossal match-ups like Fury vs Ngannou and Joshua's encounter with Wallin.
This event is a part of Riyadh Season, aligning with the region's vision to host global sporting events backed by substantial funding. UK fans expressed disappointment over their star fighting away from home yet again.
Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou Undercard
- Zhilei Zhang v Joseph Parker
- Rey Vargas vs Nick Ball
- Mark Chamberlain vs Gavin Gwynne
- Justis Huni vs Opponent TBC
- Ziyad Almaayouf vs Opponent TBC
- Roman Fury vs Opponent TBC
- Jack McGann vs Opponent TBC
An exciting support line-up features Zhilei Zhang opposite Joseph Parker as co-main event fighters. Parker rides high on his victory over Deontay Wilder while Zhang keeps an eye on title reckoning following wins including one over Joe Joyce.
Other engagements for the evening include Rey Vargas against Nick Ball, Mark Chamberlain versus Gavin Gwynne as well as appearances from Justis Huni, Ziyad Almaayouf, Roman Fury, and Jack McGann with opponents yet to be confirmed.
Regarding odds, bookmakers tilt towards Joshua given his caliber as a pure boxer although Ngannou isn't perceived as outrightly disadvantaged as he was against Fury—partly attributed to the former UFC champ receiving solidarity from MMA fans and circles.
This mammoth contest juxtaposes Anthony Joshua's classical boxing polish against Francis Ngannou's raw power and combat sports diversity, pinning expectations not just on their formidable fists but also affirming Riyadh's bourgeoning reputation in staging monumental sporting sagas.
