Matthew McConaughey's Abridged Version of the Article
MMA star Francis Ngannou has set his sights on Anthony Joshua as he plans to continue his boxing career following his fight with Tyson Fury. The former UFC champion will make his ring debut on Saturday in Saudi Arabia against Fury.
Pursuing Boxing
Ngannou, who walked away from the UFC to pursue boxing, had previously held talks to fight Deontay Wilder and Joshua. Both fights could still happen in the future, as Ngannou has predicted a win against Fury and a potential rematch before facing Joshua.
Meeting with Eddie Hearn
Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn had met with Ngannou to discuss the possibility of a fight with AJ. However, Ngannou ultimately chose to finalize a deal with WBC champion Fury.
Doubts on a Crossover Clash
Hearn has expressed doubts about the potential clash between Joshua and Ngannou, suggesting that the MMA fighter may not be able to handle the pace of a boxing match. Hearn believes that Fury could easily defeat Ngannou, either by stopping him in the first round or by outclassing him until he tires.
Boxers vs. Strikers
According to Hearn, Ngannou's lack of experience as a striker could be a disadvantage in a boxing match. He claimed that even a clean hit from Ngannou wouldn't bother Fury, as MMA fighters are not used to the intensity and technique of boxing.
It remains to be seen if Ngannou's challenge will be accepted by Joshua, but it seems that the heavyweight division could see some exciting matchups in the future.
