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.
![Francis Ngannou floored Tyson Fury in the third round of the ceremonial boxing match](https://i0.wp.com/www.chronicle.ng/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Francis-Ngannou-floored-Tyson-Fury-in-the-third-round-of-the-ceremonial-boxing-match.jpg?resize=766%2C511&ssl=1)
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.
![Anthony Joshua has three wins in three fights since April](https://i0.wp.com/www.chronicle.ng/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ezgif.com-resize-3-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&ssl=1)
The upcoming clash follows Joshua’s dominant win over Otto Wallin on December 23, as Saudi Arabia continues to host major heavyweight contests.