“He Is Novice in Professional Boxing”: Zhilei Zhang Predicts Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou

What does Zhilei Zhang expect from AJ vs. Ngannou? Ahead of the event on March 8th, at their press conference, Francis Ngannou doubted if Anthony Joshua could display the same resilience as Tyson Fury against the former UFC fighter. In addition, Ngannou also stated that Joshua did not have a chin as strong as The Gypsy King’s. As a result, the former mixed martial artist concluded Joshua, a former unified Heavyweight champion “would not take what Tyson did“.

In this context, while Zhilei Zhang believes Joshua has more experience and skill, Ngannou possesses commendable power as a boxer. As a result, the WBO Interim Heavyweight title holder, who will face Joseph Parker on the undercard of Ngannou vs. ‘AJ’, warned Joshua of Francis’ style.

Zhilei Zhang cautions Anthony Joshua against Francis Ngannou’s power and chin

Although Ngannou, as expected by the majority, lost to Tyson Fury in his boxing debut, the 37-year-old impressed the boxing world with his skills. In the third round of the fight, Ngannou shocked everyone as he knocked down ‘The Gypsy King’ with only a lead hook, displaying his ability to generate massive power in close range. But, since Joshua has already had 30 professional bouts and unified the Heavyweight title, Zhang feels Joshua can capitalize on his experience against Francis.

“I think when you look at Francis Ngannou, he’s a novice. Obviously, he is a novice in professional boxing. But he did really really well against Tyson Fury. Everybody could see that. So, in terms of boxing skill and boxing experience, I think Joshua is definitely on the up hand. There’s no question about that,” said Zhilei Zhang.

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Despite Joshua’s experience, Zhilei Zhang believes one punch can change the night given it is heavyweight boxing. Hence, he added, “However, Ngannou has the power, he has the chin. And, we’re talking about Heavyweight boxing. There’s so many things that could happen within one split second. Let’s say, one punch can even change the whole fight.”

Likewise, the 40-year-old Chinese fighter also advised Joshua to improve his defense. “So, you never know. I think for Joshua, what he has to really pay attention to is the defense and make sure it’s sound,” he concluded. Well, do you agree with Zhilei Zhang? In your opinion, who has a better chance of winning – Joshua or Francis? Let us know in the comments below.

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