“🚨 Joshua vs. Ngannou Clash of Titans! Saudi Arabia Showdown Sparks Wilder Speculation! 🌟🥊 #HeavyweightShowdown #EpicBattle”

Unified world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is set to face former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in a highly anticipated showdown scheduled for March 8 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The official announcement was made by Matchroom and Queensberry promotional teams, with a press conference on January 15 expected to reveal more details.

Despite his recent points loss to Joseph Parker, Deontay Wilder might feature on the same bill, and talks are underway for a potential bout against Zhilei Zhang. Zhang’s co-manager, Terry Lane, expressed enthusiasm about the prospect, stating, “We would love for it to happen.”

Joshua’s last impressive victory came in December against Otto Wallin, securing a ruthless fifth-round stoppage. Following the win, Joshua expressed his willingness to fight anyone, anytime.

Other potential opponents considered for Joshua included Filip Hrgovic, the IBF mandatory challenger, and Zhang. Ngannou, known for his sensational knockdown of Tyson Fury in his first professional boxing bout, is now set to challenge Joshua in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.

The WBC has recognized Ngannou’s performance by placing him in their top 10 title contenders, despite his disputed points loss to Fury in Riyadh. This fight adds to Saudi Arabia’s growing presence as a host for major heavyweight bouts, following Fury’s upcoming undisputed world title fight against Oleksandr Usyk on February 17.

Charlie Wyett from The Sun, commenting on the announcement, stated, “I think it’s the right opponent for Joshua, considering the circumstances with Wilder. It’s a good fight for him, and we can expect more big fights in Saudi Arabia in the years to come.”