The upcoming boxing match between Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou, scheduled for March 8, 2024, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and available to watch on DAZN, has garnered significant attention in combat sports.
This event promises to be a pivotal moment in both fighters’ careers, each bringing unique skills and accomplishments to the ring.
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Past Record and Analysis
Anthony Joshua’s professional boxing record is a testament to his prowess and resilience. With 30 fights, Joshua has amassed 27 wins, demonstrating his dominant striking ability and tactical skill.
Out of these victories, an impressive 24 have come through knockout, underscoring his power and precision. However, his journey has also seen setbacks, with three losses marking his record.
His career highlights include winning six world titles across multiple heavyweight divisions, a remarkable feat that signifies his elite status among boxing’s heavyweights.
Furthermore, Joshua has successfully defended his titles seven times, illustrating not only his ability to reach the pinnacle of the sport but also his determination and skill in remaining there. He has secured seven knockouts in his title fights, adding to his reputation as a formidable champion capable of ending fights decisively.
Francis Ngannou’s transition from a celebrated MMA fighter to a professional boxer. His boxing record stands at 0-1-0. This record marks his foray into professional boxing, with his debut match against Tyson Fury on October 28, 2023, where he faced a split decision loss​​.
Despite the defeat, Ngannou’s performance against a heavyweight boxing titan like Fury has been seen as a significant achievement, especially considering it was his debut in professional boxing.
Ngannou’s mixed martial arts (MMA) career, from which he transitioned to boxing, boasts an impressive record. His MMA career statistics reveal a record of 17 wins, three losses, and no draws, with a significant number of wins coming through knockouts.
His talent in the UFC’s heavyweight division was marked by devastating striking power, leading to numerous victories against top contenders and earning him the UFC Heavyweight Championship​​.
Anthony Joshua vs. Francis Ngannou: Odds Analysis
Having recently secured a stoppage win, Anthony Joshua is the favorite in this about, with odds reflecting his seasoned boxing experience. The best apps have released odds for the event.
They have Joshua as a pronounced favorite, with lines ranging significantly in his favor with the odds of -550, indicating his strong position against Ngannou, the underdog at odds of +470​​.
Such odds underscore Joshua’s esteemed boxing pedigree and the high expectations placed upon him by the community.
Francis Ngannou, on the other hand, despite being newer to professional boxing, has yet to be discounted entirely by oddsmakers.
Prop Predictions
The fight has generated a wide array of prop bets, with particular attention paid to the method of victory and the fight’s duration. The odds suggest a preference for the fight not exceeding 5½ rounds, indicating expectations for a decisive outcome.
Predictions lean towards Joshua winning by TKO/KO, reflecting his proven power and precision track record. Nevertheless, Ngannou’s punch power keeps him in the conversation, with scenarios for various outcomes, including the possibility of either fighter winning after a knockdown​​.
Analysis and Expert Opinions
Experts and analysts have weighed in, offering a nuanced view of the fight. Joshua’s recent performances have shown a strategic adaptation, particularly in his fight against Otto Wallin, where he displayed agility and power.
His ability to adjust and overcome adversity has been highlighted as a critical strength. Conversely, Ngannou’s debut against Fury, despite ending in a loss, was lauded for showcasing his potential in boxing beyond his well-known power​​​​.
UFC interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has remarked on the matchup as closely contested, acknowledging Ngannou’s impressive transition to boxing and suggesting that the fight against Joshua could be more balanced than many might expect​​.
The much-anticipated clash between Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou sets the stage for a historic showdown in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
With Joshua’s impressive record and championship pedigree facing Ngannou’s formidable power and transition from MMA to boxing, this is not just a contest of strength but a narrative-rich event that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on combat sports.
As Joshua enters as the seasoned boxer with odds in his favor, Ngannou’s underdog status belies his potential to create an upset, filling this match with unpredictability and excitement.
