British heavyweight Anthony Joshua declared that he hopes to make a statement by defeating the former mixed martial arts champion, Francis Ngannou. The 34-year-old is trying to establish himself as one of the top contenders in the heavyweight division after losing his WBA, IBF, WBO, and IBO belts to Oleksandr Usyk of Ukraine back in 2021. He has now won his last three fights.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Joshua confidently stated: “I believe I can knock him out.”
Anthony Joshua ready for war
In another statement, Joshua admitted that he would like to take Ngannou out and leave a lasting impression.
“Physically I feel strong, feeling good. Strong enough to get the job done and mentally I’m in a place where I’m ready for war. I’m looking forward to the challenge,” Joshua said.
On the other hand, Ngannou gave up his heavyweight title in the UFC due to a contract disagreement with the promotion organization and went on to become a free agent in January 2023. In October 2023, the 37-year-old made his debut in professional boxing against Tyson Fury. The thrilling match ended with a split decision.
Meanwhile, despite being on the brink of defeat at the hands of Ngannou, Tyson Fury doesn’t think he is a very good boxer. The WBC heavyweight champion was dropped by Ngannou in the third round of their ‘Battle of the Baddest’ fight in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia last October.
Fury doesn’t think he stands much of a chance of beating his long-time rival, Joshua.
“I’m expecting AJ to win, for sure. He’s a boxer, isn’t he? A former two-time world champion,” Fury said during an interview with IFL TV.
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