Nigerian boxer, Anthony Joshua, is gearing up for a showdown with former UFC heavyweight champion, Francis Ngannou, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Joshua will face UFC legend Francis in his next fight; this was confirmed by promotional teams Matchroom and Queensberry on Friday night.
Ngannou shocked the world when he made his professional boxing debut last October against Tyson Fury.
Although the former UFC fighter lost by points via a split decision.
Joshua’s show promoter, Hearn, also confirmed the fight via X.
He wrote, “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!”
The fight is expected to take place on March 9, and a press conference will be held in London on January 15.
While initially slated for a bout with Deontay Wilder on March 9, Joshua’s focus has shifted to Ngannou, who rose in the WBC’s top 10 heavyweight rankings after his debut boxing match.
The upcoming clash follows Joshua’s dominant win over Otto Wallin on December 23, as Saudi Arabia continues to host major heavyweight contests.