In a stunning display of power and precision, Anthony Joshua solidified his quest for a third world championship by delivering a spectacular knockout victory over Francis Ngannou on Friday. The fight, marked by Joshua’s overwhelming dominance, saw the former UFC heavyweight champion floored in the first round with a formidable right hand, followed by two knockdowns in the second round—the final of which decisively ended the match.
This victory, celebrated as Joshua’s most impactful knockout to date, adds to his impressive list of stoppages, including notable wins over Robert Helenius and Otto Wallin. The triumph in Saudi Arabia significantly boosts Joshua’s momentum, setting him on a direct path toward a potential title fight against the victor of the Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk bout for the undisputed heavyweight championship.
Reflecting on the fight, Joshua expressed his admiration for Fury’s capabilities and his eagerness to challenge such a formidable opponent. He acknowledged Ngannou’s valiant effort, stating, “He’s an inspiration, a great champion, and this shouldn’t diminish his abilities. There’s a lot of potentials for him in boxing if he remains committed.”
Throughout the week leading up to the fight, Joshua maintained a focused and determined demeanor, culminating in a performance that showcased his superior boxing skills against Ngannou. Despite Ngannou’s promising debut against Fury, which included a surprising knockdown, Joshua was determined to avoid any upsets.
Demonstrating exceptional speed and technique, Joshua quickly established control, knocking Ngannou down early with a powerful right. He continued to exploit Ngannou’s stance in the second round, delivering another devastating right hand that left Ngannou in need of medical attention on the canvas.
Joshua humorously remarked on Ngannou’s prior bout with Fury, playfully suggesting that he should now be considered the WBC heavyweight champion. He commended Ngannou’s ambition and encouraged him not to let the defeat overshadow his remarkable journey in the sport.
With this win, Joshua’s record improves to 28-3, signaling a strong statement of intent to the heavyweight boxing world, including Fury, who witnessed the fight from ringside. Joshua’s performance also underscores the positive impact of his partnership with trainer Ben Davison, heralding a resurgence of the lethal knockout power that characterized his early career.
As Joshua looks forward to the outcome of the Fury vs. Usyk match on May 18, his latest victory not only reaffirms his status as a formidable contender in the heavyweight division but also reignites excitement for what the future holds for him in boxing.