Francis Ngannou Eyes Rematch with Anthony Joshua after Boxing Setback

LAS VEGAS, Nevada—Francis Ngannou is eager for a rematch with Anthony Joshua following his defeat in their first boxing encounter in March 2024. Ngannou, who has returned to MMA, is expressing a strong desire to ‘get that one back,’ according to PFL Managing Director James Frewin.

‘The Predator’ faced Joshua in a highly anticipated match at which Ngannou was knocked down twice before succumbing to a winning punch. Despite the setback, Frewin believes Ngannou possesses the talent and ambition necessary to compete at the highest level. “Look, I think Francis is an incredible athlete. He’s a linear heavyweight champion of the world,” Frewin said.

Ngannou made his boxing debut to mixed reviews, notably knocking down ‘The Gypsy King’ five months prior. Since then, he has shifted his focus back to MMA and now competes in the PFL, having signed as a minority equity owner and chairman of PFL Africa. Frewin stated, “I think he wants to get that one back and that journey he’s on. Donn [Davis, PFL founder] is in conversations with Francis.”

Ngannou’s aspirations extend beyond boxing. He is deeply involved in PFL’s African expansion, set to launch in July. His commitment to his new role illustrates his dedication to growing MMA on the continent.

Meanwhile, Joshua is also on the comeback trail. After his surprising knockout loss to an unmentioned opponent who retained his IBF heavyweight title in 2024, Joshua is rumored to be considering a potential fight with Tyson Fury in January. Joshua’s promoter has suggested that a rematch with Ngannou could provide the opportunity to reaffirm ‘AJ’s’ status as a British heavyweight powerhouse.

Fighting Ngannou would not only be a move to secure Joshua’s legacy but could also deliver one of the greatest British boxing matches of all time, according to industry insiders. Discussions about a fight between Joshua and Fury have been ongoing for over a decade, with Wembley Stadium viewed as the perfect venue.

As the boxing world watches closely, the next steps for both Ngannou and Joshua could reshape the future of heavyweight boxing in 2024. Ngannou remains eager to step back into the squared circle, suggesting that the boxing narrative between the two heavyweights is far from over.