Anthony Joshua downplays undisputed title shot if he beats Francis Ngannou: “I’m not focusing on that”
Former heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua insists he isn’t thinking about undisputed gold going into his planned fight with Francis Ngannou.
When Matchroom Boxing’s Eddie Hearn and Queensberry Promotions’ Frank Warren came together to host a heavyweight themed event in Saudi Arabia in late 2023, the idea was to set the stage for a 2024 showdown between Joshua and Deontay Wilder. It wasn’t meant to be, as Wilder was defeated by Joseph Parker via unanimous decision. Joshua finished Otto Wallin with relative ease.
Now, Joshua has his sights set on Ngannou, and he isn’t about to look past him.
Anthony Joshua Not Focused On Undisputed Gold With Francis Ngannou Fight
Speaking to Ariel Helwani on “The MMA Hour,” Anthony Joshua said that despite reports that the winner of his clash with Francis Ngannou will likely get an undisputed title fight, he’s solely focused on “The Predator.”
“Let me say this again, I’m not focusing on that,” Joshua said on The MMA Hour when asked if he expects a title shot with a win over the PFL’s Ngannou. “I’m going to take my mind, I have to draw it back that Ngannou is my undisputed title fight. That’s the mentality I have to have.
“Ngannou is my undisputed fight. Because you’re only as good as your last fight, and I respect him a lot. He ain’t easy money. He’s a hard night’s work. And you know what’s crazy? So am I. I’m a hard night’s work for anyone. So let’s go, it’s going to be fireworks.”
Joshua and Ngannou are set to collide on March 8 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The last time Ngannou was in Riyadh, he nearly defeated WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury. Ngannou fell just short, losing via split decision.
