Anthony Joshua brutally knocks out Francis Ngannou in second round

According to Kamaru Usman, it was tough to watch Anthony Joshua knock out Francis Ngannou || X

BOXING Anthony Joshua brutally knocks out Francis Ngannou in second round

Festus Chuma 08:00 - 09.03.2024

Briton Anthony Joshua stunned with a devastating knockout over Ngannou and is now eyeing the undisputed title in a redemptive display of power and skill.

Briton Anthony Joshua delivered a second-round knockout to former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou solidifying his quest for a third world championship on Friday. 

The highly anticipated clash in Saudi Arabia saw Joshua unleash a vicious right hand in the opening round, setting the tone for a dominant performance.

Joshua's laser-focused demeanor throughout the week translated into a knockout clinic, leaving Ngannou shell-shocked and flat out for the count in the second round. 

The victory not only marked the most destructive knockout of Joshua's career but also served as a statement following his recent triumphs over Robert Helenius and Otto Wallin.

The win propels Joshua to a record of 28-3 in his career and positions him as a formidable contender for the winner of the upcoming clash between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk for the undisputed heavyweight championship. 

Speaking post-fight, Joshua expressed his admiration for Fury, stating, "When I saw the fight with Fury, I thought damn, this guy could fight, I wanted a piece of that."

Acknowledging Ngannou's capabilities, Joshua offered words of encouragement, saying, "He's an inspiration, a great champion, and this shouldn't take away from his capabilities. He can come again. He can go a long way if he stays dedicated."

Throughout the bout, Joshua showcased superior speed, punishing Ngannou with precise strikes and asserting his authority in the ring.

 The former unified world champion's dedication to a focused approach paid off, as he delivered a ruthless exposure to the true world of heavyweight boxing to Ngannou, who had previously gained momentum with a stunning debut performance against Fury.

Joshua's strategic use of feints and punishing combinations left Ngannou struggling to find a read, ultimately culminating in a devastating second-round finish. 

The British boxer credited his relationship with trainer Ben Davison for his resurgence, noting the impact of Davison on his knockout instincts.

"Francis Ngannou beat the WBC heavyweight champion of the world - I should be WBC heavyweight champion of the world," Joshua joked, highlighting the competitive spirit in the heavyweight division. 

The victory comes as a redemption for Joshua, who faced skepticism after back-to-back losses to Usyk. 

Two years later, Joshua proved doubters wrong with a performance that blew the door to more exciting opportunities wide open.

In the front row at ringside Tyson Fury watched as Joshua wasted no time in making it clear that he is gunning for the winner of Fury and Usyk who are set to face off on May 18.

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