Anthony Joshua was impressive in Riyadh
Anthony Joshua was impressive in Riyadh

Anthony Joshua to fight former UFC champion Francis Ngannou says Eddie Hearn


Anthony Joshua will fight former UFC champion Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia.

The former heavyweight champion, who beat Otto Wallin before Christmas, will return to Riyadh to face Ngannou on a date which is yet to be announced.

It will be a 10-round bout, according to reports, and could take place in March.

The 37-year-old Cameroonian was the heavyweight champion in UFC but has only boxed one professionally, coming close to a sensational shock when he floored Tyson Fury in October before eventually losing on controversial a split decision.

He will return to Saudi Arabia to take on Joshua, whose plans to fight Deontay Wilder were scuppered by the American’s loss to Joseph Parker.

Joshua, who has been without a belt since his loss to Oleksandr Usyk in October last year, was targeting a fight against hard-hitting Croatian Filip Hrgovic but will now take on Ngannou.

Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn posted on X, formerly Twitter: "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!"

Like what you've read?

MOST READ

Sporting Life
Join for free!
Access to exclusive features all for FREE - No monthly subscription fee
Race Replays
My stable horse tracker
giftOffers and prize draws
newsExclusive content

Next Off

Fixtures & Results

Fetching latest games....
We are committed to Safer Gambling and have a number of self-help tools to help you manage your gambling. We also work with a number of independent charitable organisations who can offer help and answers any questions you may have.
Gamble Aware LogoGamble Helpline LogoGamstop LogoGordon Moody LogoSafer Gambling Standard LogoGamban Logo18+ LogoTake Time To Think Logo