Famed British boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has recently reached out to Francis Ngannou, exploring the possibility of an epic showdown with former two-time unified world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua.
Ngannou skyrocketed to stardom in combat sports after an astounding professional boxing debut against Tyson Fury in Saudi Arabia. Despite entering the ring as a +750 underdog, Ngannou delivered a breathtaking performance.
He not only bloodied his opponent but also sent Fury crashing to the canvas in the third round with a perfectly timed counter-left.
Initially perceived as a one-off boxing venture, Ngannou now stands as a force to be reckoned with. Some of the division’s top contenders are eager to share the ring with him.
In an interview with Boxing Social, Eddie Hearn disclosed a shift in Anthony Joshua’s perspective on facing Ngannou after initially dismissing the idea.
He said: “I have not spoken to [Anthony Joshua] about the Ngannou fight. The last time I spoke to him, he wasn’t interested because he didn’t think he was credible. He remains focused on the world heavyweight championship.”
“Ngannou beating Tyson Fury makes him very credible. So you can’t in one sentence say Ngannou’s this new force in the heavyweight division and then he does that to Tyson Fury and he’s not credible.”
“I like the fight because I think AJ wins comfortably. So if they’re interested in that fight, my advice to Anthony Joshua would be to consider that fight.”
Francis Ngannou has engaged in discussions with various heavyweight boxing standouts, including Deontay Wilder. Contemplations of bouts against Joe Joyce and even a rematch with Tyson Fury have been on the table.
But Hearn emphasizes that if Ngannou is committed to facing Anthony Joshua, he needs to initiate discussions promptly.
Hearn stated: “I actually messaged Ngannou’s team yesterday telling them if you’re serious about that fight, let’s discuss it because we’re planning AJ’s next 6-12 months. If they’re interested in the Anthony Joshua fight, they should start those conversations now.”
Ngannou is also anticipated to make his PFL debut in 2024. But his remarkable boxing accomplishments could cause him to postpone those intentions till a later date.