British boxer Anthony Joshua showcased his prowess in the heavyweight division with a remarkable second-round knockout triumph over Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia. In what marked his 25th career knockout, the 34-year-old floored the UFC champion in the opening round before sealing the deal with a devastating right hand in the following round, leaving Ngannou visibly dazed and requiring medical attention.
Following the bout, Joshua expressed admiration for Ngannou’s skills and encouraged him to persist in his fighting career despite the defeat. “I wanted some of that,” Joshua remarked, alluding to Ngannou’s recent encounter with Tyson Fury. “He’s a great champion, and this outcome doesn’t diminish his capabilities.”
Promoter Eddie Hearn wasted no time in calling for Joshua to face the winner of Fury’s impending showdown against Oleksandr Usyk, a match set to determine the undisputed heavyweight world champion. With four victories in the last 11 months, Joshua is eager to reclaim a world title and entrusts his future in the sport to his team, including Hearn. “In five years, I won’t be fighting anymore,” Joshua revealed, emphasizing the pivotal role his team will play in shaping his future endeavors.