Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou to Clash in Saudi Arabia Showdown

Former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua is slated to face ex-mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia in a highly anticipated bout on March 8. Joshua, who recently secured an impressive fifth-round stoppage victory against Otto Wallin, aims to maintain his resurgence in the boxing arena.

Ngannou, originally from Cameroon, transitioned to professional boxing in October, delivering a knockdown to WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury in his debut before narrowly losing a close decision. The upcoming clash between Joshua and Ngannou is expected to be a major highlight in the boxing calendar.

Both Joshua’s triumph over Wallin and Ngannou’s noteworthy performance against Fury took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the country’s growing prominence as a favored location for major boxing events. The fighters are set to engage in a press conference in London, providing a preview of the intensity expected in their upcoming encounter.

Saudi Arabia has become a key destination for high-profile sporting events, hosting major boxing bouts and securing rights for events such as the 2034 World Cup, the LIV Golf circuit, a Formula One Grand Prix, and football’s Club World Cup. Despite the significant investments in sports, the country has faced criticism for its human rights and environmental record, with detractors accusing it of using sports events to improve its international image—a practice known as “sportswashing.”