Promoter Eddie Hearn and Frank Warren have expressed their apprehensions about Francis Ngannou’s power posing a threat to Anthony Joshua’s ambitions of becoming the undisputed champion. Initially, Hearn seemed to view the fight as a guaranteed win for Joshua, but he has now shifted his stance, acknowledging the risks involved. Hearn admits that while Joshua may have superior hand speed and boxing skills compared to Ngannou, it is the latter’s raw power that worries him the most. The uncertainty of how Joshua will fare once he starts absorbing blows from the former UFC champion is a cause for concern.
Realization of Ngannou’s Potential
In a candid statement to Queensberry, Hearn acknowledged Ngannou as a formidable opponent, particularly after his recent victory over Tyson Fury. Hearn highlighted the fact that Ngannou is the first fighter who can match Joshua in terms of sheer power, if not size. While Joshua may have the advantage in terms of speed and technical prowess, the looming threat of Ngannou’s knockout ability remains a constant worry. Despite Joshua’s defensive strategy resembling Wladimir Klitschko’s cautious approach in the past, the unpredictability of Ngannou’s power adds a new dimension to the upcoming fight.
The Knockout Factor
Promoter Frank Warren echoed Hearn’s sentiments regarding the unpredictable nature of the Joshua vs. Ngannou matchup. Warren emphasized the significance of both fighters being heavy hitters, underscoring the pivotal moment when the first significant blow lands. The psychological impact of absorbing a powerful shot will dictate the subsequent course of the fight, potentially forcing the affected fighter to rethink their strategy. Warren anticipates an intense and exciting battle between Joshua and Ngannou, predicting that the fight may not go the distance due to the explosive nature of both competitors.
The evolving narrative surrounding the impending clash between Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou underscores the uncertainty and intrigue shrouding the fight. While Joshua retains certain advantages in terms of skill and speed, Ngannou’s sheer power has forced promoters like Eddie Hearn and Frank Warren to reassess the potential outcome. As the boxing world awaits the showdown between these two formidable athletes, the looming threat of a knockout looms large, injecting an element of unpredictability and excitement into the highly anticipated matchup.