Eddie Hearn says when Anthony Joshua will be ready for Francis Ngannou
Matchroom Sports promoter Eddie Hearn disclosed that Anthony Joshua is ready to fight Francis Ngannou in December, amid a surprising rush for the new boxing star.
Francis Ngannou became famous after Mike Tyson’s so-called crash course empowered him to stand his ground against WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury in a crossover bout that ended with him and Fury being the moral victor and true winner, respectively.
Hearn stated before the much-publicised match that Ngannou was going to be won not later than the third round of the ten-round contest, but was to see the debutant take Tyson Fury through the ten rounds in a serious battle that has many confused as to who should be the real winner.
Though many combat sports fans are looking forward to a rematch featuring Fury and Ngannou, the former is obligated to fight Oleksandr Usyk next, while Ngannou will have to make do with other opponents until a favourable time.
Anthony Joshua, who is hungry for at least one fight before the year runs out, is searching hard for an opponent, having promised fans beforehand to give them up to three fights this year. There have been futile discussions with American Deontay Wilder’s side, with both heavyweights presently looking for other alternatives.
But Eddie Hearn’s eyes are fixed on Francis Ngannou, whom he formerly did not expect much from, hoping a fight between Joshua and Ngannou would happen and help Joshua fulfil his promise.
‘We’d take [Joshua vs. Ngannou] fight on December 23, no problem,’ said Eddie Hearn.
The promoter alleged that efforts are going on to get an opponent for Joshua by December 23rd.
‘We’re looking at that date for Joshua anyway,’ said Hearn. ‘Maybe I’ll reach out to them and say listen, if you’re looking for an opponent for Francis Ngannou, AJ’s ready, December 23, no problem at all. I’d like more time promotionally to make that fight what it is, one of the biggest fights out there, but no problem.’