Francis Ngannou predicts Tyson Fury will defeat Anthony Joshua
Francis Ngannou believes Tyson Fury will emerge victorious when he finally meets Anthony Joshua in the ring later this year, reports BritPanorama.
The former UFC heavyweight champion holds a rare perspective, having traded blows with both British giants during his crossover to professional boxing. “We’ve been waiting for that fight for almost 10 years now, so finally it has happened,” he said. Ngannou asserted that while the contest is closely matched, he favours Fury, stating, “If it’s going to go to a decision, I will pick Fury.”
Ngannou added, “I think the fight is well in Fury’s favour.” However, he also sees a potential path to victory for Joshua, particularly in the early rounds, suggesting, “If it’s a knockout, I think Joshua has a chance early.”
The 39-year-old’s insights carry significant weight given his direct experience against both men. Ngannou stunned observers during his professional boxing debut in 2023 by flooring Fury early in their bout, although he ultimately lost by split decision. In contrast, Joshua dispatched Ngannou within two rounds, delivering a decisive knockout that underscored his formidable punching power.
This contrasting experience informs Ngannou’s belief that Joshua’s best chance lies in ending matters quickly. Meanwhile, former cruiserweight champion Johnny Nelson has expressed reservations regarding both fighters heading into this highly anticipated contest. He remarked on That Boxing Show that neither fighter appears to be at their peak, specifically noting, “I think Tyson Fury’s legs and his reactions aren’t what they used to be.”
Nelson also raised concerns regarding Joshua’s mental state in the aftermath of personal difficulties during the festive period, suggesting, “I think with Anthony Joshua, there is something missing.” He posed questions about Joshua’s hunger and desire, highlighting uncertainties that remain ahead of the clash.
Further emphasizing concerns about Joshua’s condition, Andy Ruiz Jr has warned that the Briton never fully recovered from their first encounter in 2019. Ruiz expressed insights gleaned from a conversation with a medical professional, stating, “After I hit him with that shot to the temple, he wasn’t going to recover.” He pointed to Joshua’s subsequent defeats as evidence of lasting damage while acknowledging his former opponent’s resilience.
As the boxing world eagerly anticipates this bout, it’s a reminder of how even the biggest names can be shadowed by vulnerabilities and the relentless passage of time. The ring awaits their arrival; it will be far more than just a contest of strength but a spectacle where legacy and frailty coexist.
