A challenge is never turned down by Anthony Joshua. On March 8, when he fights mixed martial arts pro Francis Ngannou, he will be a big favorite.
Joshua(27-3, 24KOs) a 34-year old from England has faced a number of formidable opponents during his career, including Joseph Parker, Alexander Povetkin, Wladimir Klitschko, and Oleksandr Usyk.
Joshua's resume, however, noticeably lacks American puncher Deontay Wilder and British opponent Tyson Fury. He notes that despite the fact that fights with both opponents were never held, he had already committed to face both men.
There have been failed attempts to get Tyson Fury and Joshua to fight each other in the past. Joshua had signed a contract to face Wilder this year, but the American pulled out due to an unexpected upset loss to Joseph Parker.
“The Wilder cancellation, was annoying in a way because in fight week we met up, we spoke to lawyers, we signed contracts, all that good stuff. It's a fight that fans want to see," he continued. "I'm not saying it's completely written off,” said Joshua in media reports.
"It's a fight where everything was signed and sealed. It just needed both of us to deliver. And he didn't meet his end of the bargain," he added.
His readiness to face that level of opposition speaks volumes about Joshua's fighting prowess. When Joshua faced Oleksandr Usyk again, he was unable to regain the unified world heavyweight belts. However, Joshua has won three fights since losing to the Ukrainian, and he will utilize this upcoming matchup with Ngannou to determine where he stands in the division.
Joshua will be fighting in Saudi Arabia for the second time in a row against Ngannou. However, he hopes to return to boxing in Britain before the year is over. He still seems to be somewhat passionate about the sport for the time being. Retirement is not something he plans to do anytime soon. He wishes to continue challenging himself.
“On this quest for greatness how far can I push myself? How much can my brain keep on going until it gives up and I'm like: I can't do it anymore? I want to keep on pushing my brain and trying new things. Get quicker, stronger, smarter in the ring. Face challenges, because I learn so much about myself. And then when it's enough, enough is enough,” said Joshua
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