Anthony Joshua is set to face former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in a 10-round boxing match in Saudi Arabia. Eddie Hearn has confirmed that the Joshua vs. Ngannou deal is complete, with a press conference scheduled for January 15th to discuss the fight.
This move by Hearn and his Matchroom company has raised concerns among boxing fans. Ngannou, who lost his last fight and is still relatively inexperienced in boxing, is being given the opportunity to face Joshua, a former heavyweight champion. This decision has sparked criticism and raised questions about the integrity of the sport.
Is it an exhibition or an official match?
Hearn’s announcement did not clarify whether the Joshua vs. Ngannou fight would be an exhibition. It is unusual for a seasoned former world champion to be matched against a fighter with limited experience, especially one who has only fought once professionally. If the commission does not approve the fight, there is speculation about whether it will be held as an exhibition or seek approval from a lesser-known commission.
The previous fight between Ngannou and Tyson Fury in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was sanctioned, suggesting that the upcoming Joshua vs. Ngannou fight may receive similar approval from the commission.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding this match, a loss for Joshua may not significantly impact his chances of a title fight in December against the winner of the rematch between WBC heavyweight champion Fury and IBF, WBA, and WBO champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Some argue that the Joshua vs. Ngannou fight, if sanctioned as an official match, could undermine the integrity of the sport, particularly given the disparity in experience between the two fighters. There are concerns about the emphasis on money and celebrity rather than the athletic merit of the matchup.
I will confirm that the transaction is completed tonight. @AnthonyJoshua v @francis_ngannou Big night clash in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – press conference in London on January 15th, details to be announced soon!#Joshua Ngannou @Turki_alalshikh @MatchroomBoxing @Queensberry #riyadhseason 🇸🇦
— Eddie Hearn (@EddieHearn) January 5, 2024
Ngannou’s motivation for the fight
Oscar De La Hoya of Golden Boy Promotions reacted to the news of the Joshua vs. Ngannou matchup by highlighting the financial incentives for MMA fighters to transition to boxing. He emphasized that many MMA fighters are drawn to boxing for the potential monetary rewards. This move by Ngannou could pave the way for other mixed martial artists to pursue similar crossover opportunities, which may be financially lucrative for both the fighters and promoters.
De La Hoya expressed concern that the focus on non-boxers participating in these crossover matches sidelines real boxers and may compromise the competitive nature of the sport. He also noted that Ngannou’s fighting style has evolved from his MMA career and may not necessarily align with traditional boxing techniques, raising doubts about the potential competitiveness of the fight against Joshua.
Despite the criticisms, De La Hoya acknowledged the courage and determination displayed by MMA fighters who venture into boxing and endorsed their pursuit of financial success in the sport.
