Barry Jones warns Anthony Joshua it could be “the end of his career” if he loses to Ngannou
Two-time world champion Anthony Joshua (27-3, 24KO) is just weeks away from his mega-showdown against UFC Legend, Francis Ngannou (0-1), with the fight scheduled for March 8 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The former UFC legend is coming off the back of a tremendous performance against Tyson Fury in October. ‘The Gypsy King’ came away from the bout the victor on points, however, it was not an easy task for the WBC ruler, getting knocked down in the third by the heavy-hitting Cameroonian.
Nevertheless, Anthony Joshua will be heading into the fight a heavy favourite, coming off the back of a fantastic fifth-round stoppage victory over Otto Wallin on the ‘Day of Reckoning’ card in December.
‘AJ’ looks to be building towards a chance to claim a heavyweight title once more, so a win over Ngannou is a must for the Brit if he wants to keep his plans at achieving world honours on track.
Speaking to Sky Sports on the Toe2Toe podcast, former super featherweight champion Barry Jones gave his opinion on the upcoming matchup.
“Joshua is a hard fight for Ngannou because he keeps his shape really well, he punches down the line and every punch is a bit more forceful.
“There is more intent with every punch he throws, and I think he can get the stoppage.
“I don’t think he will knock him out, I think if he boxes sensible but assertive [he will get the win]. He did that against Wallin, but only against Wallin.
” You’ve got to go with common sense. A one-fight novice still should not beat a former heavyweight champion of the world who is not out of his prime, I think it’s a relatively easy night for him.
“If he can’t, then it could be a nightmare and the end of his career if he gets beat by Ngannou.”
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