Anthony Joshua agrees deal to face Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia

In a boxing bout this year, former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua will face MMA star Francis Ngannou.

Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter, confirmed this on his X account.

Ngannou stunned the world on his professional boxing debut last October when he floored World Boxing Council (WBC) heavyweight champion Tyson Fury.

Fury, on the other hand, returned from the knockdown to win on points in a split decision.

However, Ngannou is returning to face another British heavyweight, Anthony Joshua, who is rebuilding his career following defeats to Oleksandr Usyk.

Both Joshua and Ngannou signed contracts for the ten-round fight, which will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Friday night.

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The fight was confirmed by Hearn, who wrote: “Tonight we confirm it’s a done deal! @anthonyjoshua v @francis_ngannou collide on a huge night in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – press conference Jan 15 in London with full details dropping soon!”

Meanwhile, the bout has been confirmed by Frank Warren, the English manager and promoter.

“Another historic night for @RiyadhSeason!

“Press conference and fight date news coming soon. Can’t wait for it all to get started!”

It has not been confirmed when the fight will take place, but it has been rumoured that March 9, when Joshua was scheduled to face Deontay Wilder, is the date being floated.

Anthony Joshua comes into this fight with three victories in 2023, the most recent being in December with an excellent win over Otto Wallin.