Anthony Joshua will risk his legacy and career against Francis Ngannou this Friday night (March 8) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
That statement may seem extreme, but losing to a one-fight novice and throwing away everything – millions of pounds and potential glory – for the sake of one-upping Tyson Fury would be difficult to come back from at this later stage of Joshua’s career.
Ngannou is a unique addition to the heavyweight division. His unexpected showing against Tyson Fury last October was the type of surprise the boxing world is not accustomed to. Dropping one of the world’s best heavyweights in the third round and taking him the 10-round distance was proof that the Cameroonian is not some sort of circus act that can be pushed around. The former UFC heavyweight champion’s power is frightening and Joshua’s previous trips to the canvas leave cause for concern.
WHEN AND WHERE IS IT?
Joshua vs Ngannou takes place this Friday (March 8) at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
WHERE CAN I WATCH JOSHUA VS. NGANNOU?
Sky Sports Box Office, DAZN PPV and TNT Sports Box Office will broadcast the event simultaneously. Prices and start times may vary. Please check with your chosen provider.
WHAT TIME WILL THE MAIN EVENT START?
Although unconfirmed the fight is likely to start no later than 11pm (UK time).
WHO IS ON THE UNDERCARD?
Eight bouts are scheduled for the undercard subject to change.
- Zhilei Zhang vs Joseph Parker (Heavyweight)
- Israil Madrimov vs Magomed Kurbanov (Super-welterweight)
- Rey Vargas vs Nick Ball (Featherweight)
- Mark Chamberlain vs Gavin Gwynne (Lightweight)
- Justis Huni vs Kevin Lerena (Heavyweight)
- Jack McGann vs Louis Greene (Super-welterweight)
- Ziyad Almaayouf vs Christian Lopez Flores (Super-lightweight)
- Roman Fury vs Martin Zivac (Heavyweight)
WHAT ARE THE BETTING ODDS?
Anthony Joshua 1/4 Francis Ngannou 3/1 (Odds courtesy of Bet365)
WHAT ARE THE EXPERTS SAYING?
To hear opinions from the likes of Jamel Herring, Kalle Sauerland, Zhilei Zhang, Peter Fury and more click the video below.
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