The former two-time world champion delivered a devastating knockout blow to the former MMA star in the second round, landing a powerful right hand that sent Ngannou crashing to the canvas in Riyadh’s Kingdom Arena.
Despite being dazed and hurt, Ngannou managed to regain his composure and engage in a brief exchange of words with Joshua, who encouraged him not to give up on boxing following his defeat.
Joshua commended Ngannou for his previous bout against Tyson Fury, acknowledging his fighting prowess and expressing his desire to face him in the ring.
“Ngannou is an inspiration, a great champion,” Joshua stated, emphasizing that the loss shouldn’t overshadow his abilities. “He can bounce back. I told him not to quit boxing. He’s only two fights in, and he’s already faced the best.”
Joshua’s victory came after a relentless display, with two knockdowns preceding the decisive right hand that ended the fight. Ngannou showed promise early on, but Joshua’s superior boxing skills ultimately prevailed.
Reflecting on the win in an interview with Sky Sports, Joshua admitted that he wasn’t entirely satisfied and was already looking ahead to his next challenge. With his sights set on the winner of the Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk bout, Joshua expressed confidence in his ability to face any opponent.
“The heavyweight division is tough, but I’m always ready for the next challenge,” Joshua affirmed. “If Fury or Usyk want to face me, they know where to find me. I’m ready to take on whoever comes my way.”
