Anthony Joshua Only Focuses On Against Francis Ngannou

Anthony Joshua focuses on facing Francis Ngannou (Instagram/@anthonyjoshua).

JAKARTA Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua directed all his focus on his closest duel schedule against former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou.

The battle, which brings together two fighters from different sports disciplines, will take place on March 8, 2024, in Saudi Arabia.

The winner of the duel plans to challenge the winner of the undisputed world champion fight between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk which takes place on February 17, 2024.

Joshua said he did not want to be disturbed by this possibility. He emphasized that he is currently only focused on the fight against Ngannou.

"I say once again, I will not focus on facing the winner of Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk. Ngannou is the undisputed opponent of my title fight. That's the mentality I have to have," he was quoted as saying by Boxing Scene.

Meanwhile, Ngannou made his professional boxing debut in October 2023 in a 10-round fight against Fury. On paper, many observers expect Fury to win easily.

However, Ngannou proved himself by bringing down Fury in the third round and competing throughout the match. Fury was forced to win a narrow victory through a separate decision (split decision).

"Ngannou is an undeniable match for me. You are only as good as your last game. I have great respect for him. He is not an easy opponent," said Joshua.

Joshua was initially in the plan against his old rival, Deontay Wilder. However, the scenario fell apart after Wilder suffered an unexpected loss to Joseph Parker in December 2023.