Article Synopsis as Told by Matthew McConaughey
Joshua vs. Ngannou Showdown
Anthony Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, has confirmed that Joshua is ready to face Francis Ngannou in a highly anticipated bout before the end of the year. Hearn stated that there would be "no problem" in arranging the fight, which could take place on December 23 in Saudi Arabia.
Joshua's Previous Plans
Prior to the potential fight with Ngannou, Joshua was set to face Oleksandr Usyk in an undisputed title fight. However, plans changed after Fury's crossover clash with Ngannou, in which he controversially won on points, leaving him injured and unable to compete in the near future.
Possible Postponement
Due to Fury's injuries, the highly anticipated four-belt unification fight in Riyadh is now facing a possible postponement until February. In the meantime, Saudi boxing bosses are focused on making the Ngannou fight happen on December 23.
Hearn's Proposal
Eddie Hearn expressed his desire for Joshua to fight before the end of the year and is open to starting negotiations for a match against MMA superstar Ngannou. Hearn stated, "We'd take that fight on December 23, no problem," and is willing to reach out to Ngannou's team to discuss the possibility.
Ngannou's Potential Opponents
While Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang were initially considered as potential opponents for Ngannou, Hearn dismissed the idea, stating that there is no point in taking a smaller fight when the biggest fight, against Joshua, is available. Hearn also mentioned the possibility of a fight against Deontay Wilder.
Plans for Joshua vs. Wilder
Eddie Hearn had been leading negotiations for a fight between Joshua and Wilder in the Middle East, but talks broke down with Saudi backers. Hearn now intends to stage the Joshua vs. Wilder blockbuster next year, with Joshua fighting Ngannou in the interim.
Changing Tides
Previously, Joshua had shown little interest in fighting Ngannou. However, after witnessing Ngannou's performance against Fury, Hearn believes that Joshua's mindset may have changed. Hearn revealed, "Now he's beaten Fury, I think you've got every excuse you need to fight him."
-End of Article-
