Francis Ngannou recently created a lot of buzz on social media after signing a contract with PFL. However, the former UFC champion declared that he won’t compete inside the octagon/ring until 2024.
This news led to rumors that The Predator wants to fight against a top heavyweight in a boxing bout. Subsequently, there were several names thrown into the discussion like Tyson Fury, Deontay Wilder, Anthony Joshua, and many more.
As per reports, a super fight between Ngannou and AJ made the most noise on the internet. Because Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn expressed his interest in the former UFC heavyweight champion. Moreover, he even said that he is down to book that bout.
Although to the disappointment of many fans who wanted to see the fight, Hearn rejected the idea of this heavyweight bout in a recent interview. The British promoter while having a chat in a recent episode of The Maclife’s Pub Talk 14 discussed various topics from Conor McGregor to why AJ does not want to fight Francis.
“I think the Francis Ngannou fight happens in the Middle East. It’s a kind of not freak show, because Francis can box as well, but the big money comes there from the Middle East. And in August, it’s not really the time to do it [because of the weather]. Mainly,” he said.
“I spoke to AJ about the fight. He likes it and he gets it, but he’s very focused on his boxing career at the moment. And he doesn’t want to derail that to do something a little bit gimmicky. Even though it’s dangerous, he wants to prepare for Deontay Wilder, and I think he doesn’t feel that Ngannou would prepare him for Deontay Wilder,” he further added.
Who will Anthony Joshua fight next inside the boxing ring?
Looking at AJ’s promoter Eddie Hearn’s recent interviews, it seems that the British promoter wants to book the Deontay Wilder fight. There aren’t a lot of options in the heavyweight division that makes sense for Anthony Joshua. A fight against The Bronze Bomber is something many fans have demanded for years and it will likely be a huge spectacle for the fans.
After his lackluster performance in his last bout, he had to face a lot of criticism from experts and fans. Therefore this matchup against Wilder allows Joshua to prove to the world that he is still one of the best heavyweights in the scene right now. However, one cannot confirm that Deontay Wilder will be AJ’s next opponent as it is not official.
Besides, considering the history of boxing, where fights do not materialize due to disagreements originating from petty reasons. The AJ bout can fall apart at any time.
Who do you think Anthony should fight next? Share your picks down below!
