by Oscar Cabrero/ Boxing Contributor 

Francis Ngannou is set to square off against two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua in a highly anticipated 10-round heavyweight battle. Promoter Eddie Hearn announced the fight on Friday, which was first reported by renowned journalist Ariel Helwani and later corroborated by sources speaking to ESPN. Scheduled for March 8, this bout represents a significant moment in heavyweight boxing, bringing together two formidable forces of the sport.

Anthony Joshua, with a record of 27 wins (24 by knockout) and 3 losses, was initially slated to face Deontay Wilder on March 9 in Riyadh, but plans shifted following Wilder’s unexpected defeat by Joseph Parker. In a recent display of his abilities, Joshua secured a fifth-round TKO against Otto Wallin, where he notably fractured Wallin’s nose. On the other side, Francis Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion, made an electrifying entrance into professional boxing.

Despite a split-decision loss, Ngannou left an indelible mark by flooring the heavyweight champion Tyson Fury last October in Riyadh. Joshua, having reclaimed his titles from Andy Ruiz Jr. in December 2019 in Riyadh, faced setbacks in subsequent bouts against Oleksandr Usyk.

This upcoming fight carries substantial implications for the future of heavyweight boxing. The winner is expected to be in a prime position for a showdown against the victor of the Fury-Usyk fight, which is set for February 17 in Riyadh for the undisputed heavyweight championship.