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Anthony Joshua’s Fight Against Francis Ngannou Puts Him in a High Risk High Reward Situation

Published Jan 9, 2024 | 2:35 PM EST

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Anthony Joshua faces a gamble unlike any other going up against Francis Ngannou. Fresh from his latest triumph against Otto Wallin, Joshua steps into a battle where defeat is as tangible as the canvas under his feet. But why is this fight different? Ngannou, a former UFC titan, brings a unique brand of ferocity to the ring.

Imagine a powerhouse with the brute strength of an MMA champion, stepping into the traditional ring of boxing and excelling in his first matchup. Joshua, a professional boxer, is set to gamble his future fate against Ngannou. Can Joshua’s refined technique withstand the raw, unorthodox power of Ngannou?

Anthony Joshua is putting his whole reputation at risk!

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Anthony Joshua, much like Tyson Fury before him, treads on precarious ground as he faces Francis Ngannou. The same Ngannou who, against all odds, nearly toppled Fury—a testament to his devastating power in the ring. “Tyson couldn’t hurt him,”  remarked Conor McGregor about Ngannou’s resilience during the Fury bout. This statement alone illustrates the daunting challenge that lies ahead for Joshua.

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As AJ steps into this high-profile fight, he must heed the lessons from Fury’s near-defeat. Ngannou’s performance against Fury wasn’t just a fight; it was a clear demonstration of his capability to shake the foundations of heavyweight boxing. Steve Bunce of TNT Sports aptly noted, “Tyson Fury got away with one tonight.” These words echo a warning for Joshua: one slip, one misjudged move, and his hard-earned reputation could face a severe setback.

Moreover, Ngannou’s versatility, as highlighted by Hardy, head of PFL Europe fight operations, adds another layer of unpredictability. “It is in his contract he can split his time between boxing and MMA,” stated Hardy. This duality in Ngannou’s fighting style could pose unique challenges for Joshua, demanding not just physical prowess but also strategic acumen.

Joshua’s path is clear but fraught with peril. He must navigate this fight with the precision and skill that has defined his career, fully aware that the shadow of Ngannou’s power looms large, ready to capitalize on any error.

But what are the possible rewards for the huge amount of risks he’s taking?

A chance for Joshua to become the better British boxer than Fury?

Victory for Anthony Joshua doesn’t just mean triumph in the ring; it also signifies a financial and reputational windfall. A clean win, especially a knockout against Francis Ngannou, would do more than bolster Joshua’s standing; it would serve as a stark contrast to Tyson Fury’s struggle against the same opponent. “Imagine what I would do,” Joshua mused, reflecting on Ngannou’s ability to drop Fury, hinting at the opportunity to outperform his rival in spectacular fashion.

The financial stakes are equally monumental. According to Forbes, Ngannou is expected to surpass his combined UFC and Tyson Fury payouts, with a predicted earning of around $20 million. For Joshua, this fight represents not just a chance to reclaim the upper hand in his rivalry with Fury but also to secure a substantial payday.

Joshua’s potential victory carries more than just personal satisfaction. It offers a chance to shift the narrative in his favor, positioning him above Fury in the heavyweight hierarchy. A knockout would send a resounding message across the boxing world, underlining Joshua’s prowess and strategic superiority. It’s a high-reward scenario that could redefine his career, painting him not just as a champion, but as a dominant force in heavyweight boxing.

But, what does Ngannou think of this fight?

Is Ngannou ready for Joshua?

As the anticipation builds, Francis Ngannou has been vocal about his expectations and strategies for the upcoming fight. His words shed light on their mindsets and the intensity of this clash.

“If AJ takes the punch that Fury took, I don’t guarantee that he’s standing up. I’ve heard that [Joshua] doesn’t have a chin. I’m going to find out,” Ngannou boldly declared. This statement, brimming with confidence, signifies Ngannou’s intention to test Joshua’s resilience in the ring.

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Moreover, Ngannou’s transition from MMA to boxing has been a topic of discussion. He noted the difference in the sports after his win against Fury, saying, “This is a new sport that I never did, that I never fit. Now I know I can do this… get ready. The wolf is in the house.” These words from Ngannou illustrate his adaptability and determination to prove himself in the boxing world.

The exchange of words between these two titans adds a layer of intrigue to the already electrifying matchup. Their statements not only highlight their individual confidence and readiness but also set the stage for a battle where both skill and willpower will be tested to their limits.

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Who will emerge victorious, proving their mettle in the face of immense pressure and expectations? Will Joshua’s technique and experience prevail, or will Ngannou’s raw power and unorthodox style prove to be the deciding factor?

Watch this story: Anthony Joshua’s Biggest Money Grabs Inside The Boxing Ring

Written by:

Mrinal Mishra

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"Boxing is the ultimate challenge. There's nothing that can compare to testing yourself the way you do every time you step in the ring," said Sugar Ray Leonard. Growing up engrossed in sports, it was the compelling narrative of the Mike Tyson documentary that first pulled me into the magnetic world of boxing.
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Edited by:

Gokul Pillai