It’s time for another epic heavyweight showdown in Saudi Arabia. Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou is set for 10 rounds on Friday night as the former UFC champ continues his foray into boxing.
We’ve previewed the upcoming bout, picking out some betting tips based on the latest boxing betting odds.
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Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou Fight Preview
AJ is taking a big risk for this fight. There is little to gain reputation-wise from beating Ngannou, but a lot to lose.
We witnessed just how heavy Ngannou’s hands are in the Fury fight, dropping the world champion early on. But it wasn’t just a lucky shot. The Cameroonian was the aggressor for large periods and many thought he should have won the decision.
It will perhaps never come to light how seriously Fury took that fight but Joshua will certainly not take it lightly.
Coming off an emphatic knockout win over Otto Wallin, a dominant display against Ngannou could further Joshua’s claim to face the winner of Fury vs Usyk.
For Ngannou’s camp, a lot was learnt about the MMA star in his bout against Fury. They now know he can comfortably push the pace for 10 rounds, something many transitioning from MMA to boxing struggle with.
They also discovered that his power translates to 10-ounce gloves, although we probably didn’t need that confirmation.
Ngannou more than held his own against Fury. He shocked the Gypsy King. However, he must be prepared for a different fight this time around.
AJ will use all his experience to drain Ngannou’s tank, utilising a strong jab to keep him at arm’s length. There’s a chance both men are tentative in the opening rounds, sizing up each other’s power before pushing the pace toward the mid-way point.
If AJ wins, it confirms that he is deserving of a title shot, or at least another pop at Usyk.
If Ngannou wins, we might just have to accept that he is an elite heavyweight boxer. A title shot could be next for him too.
Latest Joshua vs Ngannou Boxing Betting Odds
Moneyline
Anthony Joshua to win @ 1.23
Francis Ngannou to win @ 3.85
Draw @ 21.00
Winning Method
Anthony Joshua by KO/TKO/DQ @ 1.61
Anthony Joshua by decision @ 4.33
Francis Ngannou by KO/TKO/DQ @ 4.75
Francis Ngannou by decision @ 21.00
Round Betting
AJ (26.00) – Round 1 – Ngannou (51.00)
AJ (21.00) – Round 2 – Ngannou (41.00)
AJ (17.00) – Round 3 – Ngannou (34.00)
AJ (13.00) – Round 4 – Ngannou (34.00)
AJ (12.00) – Round 5 – Ngannou (34.00)
AJ (11.00) – Round 6 – Ngannou (34.00)
AJ (10.00) – Round 7 – Ngannou (34.00)
AJ (10.00) – Round 8 – Ngannou (51.00)
AJ (12.00) – Round 9 – Ngannou (67.00)
AJ (13.00) – Round 10 – Ngannou (101.00)
Will the fight go the distance?
Yes @ 3.55
No @ 1.27
Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou Betting Tips
Anthony Joshua to win by decision @ 4.33
AJ is favoured by many to win by decision. However, we like Joshua by decision at 4.33.
It will likely be a slow start with the pair feeling each other out. We don’t expect the pace to pick up until round four of five.
AJ will likely use his experience to outscore Ngannou in the quiet early rounds, turning it on toward the back end of the fight.
Francis Ngannou to win in rounds 3-4 @ 17.00
This will be a different fight, one where Ngannou’s gas tank will likely be tested more than it was against Fury.
As a result, his chances are best early on when he retains his full punching power. It’s unlikely but it’s certainly not impossible.
Where and When to Watch Joshua vs Ngannou
Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou will take place on Friday 8th March at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
It will take place on Friday to avoid any clash with the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix taking place at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit over the weekend.
The undercard is set to begin at 4pm UK time, with the main event ring walks scheduled for 10pm UK time.
The bout will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Box Office and DAZN PPV.
*Odds subject to change.
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