Tyson Fury appeared clearly confused as a debutant knocked him down on the canvas last October. Taking Francis Ngannou lightly cost him a bit of his reputation as one of the best heavyweight champions. Anthony Joshua, who was initially set to face Deontay Wilder, had his plans disrupted after Wilder’s loss to Joseph Parker. After debating among a few possible opponents, Eddie Hearn finally confirmed a finalized deal for Joshua to clash with the Cameroonian-French fighter in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with a potential date of March 8.
Gabe Rosado, the former professional boxer, offers valuable advice to Joshua ahead of his encounter with Ngannou. Rosado suggests that emerging from a victory against Otto Wallin with excitement and overconfidence could potentially jeopardize Joshua’s upcoming bout.
Gabe Rosado believes the Ngannou-Joshua fight will be entertaining
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Ngannou gained attention after a contentious split decision loss to WBC heavyweight champion Fury in Saudi Arabia. He was even ranked 10th by the WBC. Trained by ‘Iron’ Mike Tyson himself, Ngannou’s defeat was questioned by many who even held him to be the true winner. “It’s going to be entertaining coz Ngannou can actually fight. I don’t think Tyson was in tiptop shape going into that fight but i think Ngannou could fight anyway,” said Rosado in an interview with FightHub TV.
Fury might not have been in his best form. Regardless, going against a champion in a completely new sport and making a mark so strong is not a feat just anybody can achieve. Joshua has to be careful to not repeat what Fury did. “What I’m saying, I think Joshua can’t take him lightly, it’ll end up looking like how it did for Tyson,” cautioned Rosado, advising AJ to be prepared. Joshua might be progressing, but so is Ngannou.
Francis Ngannou to bag a fat paycheck from the fight
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Last year, ‘The Predator’ turned down an $8 million UFC deal. The decision now appears remarkably savvy as he gears up to face Joshua in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Reports suggest Ngannou is poised to earn another significant eight-figure sum from this bout, following his previous $10 million earnings in the Fury match. It should be noted that Ngannou made more money through this one match with Fury than he did in his entire UFC career.
Ngannou’s star continues to ascend, with expectations that his upcoming earnings might reach a whopping $20 million. While Ngannou stands to benefit, Joshua is also seeking a substantial payday. Overall, the event promises to be lucrative for both fighters, and fans anticipate an electrifying bout in March.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
With the fight inching closer, fans wait to see if Ngannou will continue to surprise and maybe even win the bout. AJ’s experience and Ngannou’s massive punching power stand facing each other. Which one do you predict will reign superior this time? Tell us in the comments below.
Watch This Story: Francis Ngannou’s Gruesome Training With Mike Tyson Ahead Of October Bout