Francis Ngannou and Anthony Joshua face off for the first time | VIDEO

Following his great performance against Tyson Fury last time out, Francis Ngannou has landed on his feet and is now set to make his second appearance inside the boxing ring.

‘The Predator’ left the UFC behind to fulfill his goals and was ridiculed by many who believe he made a mistake by not re-signing with the MMA promotion. Since then, he has gone on to sign with the PFL, fight one of the best boxers of this generation, and is preparing to face another boxing superstar.

Looking to make yet another splash in the squared circle, Francis Ngannou has come to an agreement with Anthony Joshua to meet in the ring later this year. The two powerhouses have now faced off ahead of their bout for the first time since the fight announcement.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐎𝐟𝐟 👀@anthonyjoshua vs @francis_ngannou

🗓️ March 8
📍 @RiyadhSeason#JoshuaNgannou #RiyadhSeason pic.twitter.com/9QwDnQeHVA

— Matchroom Boxing (@MatchroomBoxing) January 15, 2024

After his controversial split decision defeat to Tyson Fury last time out, all signs began pointing to Francis Ngannou colliding with Deontay Wilder—a man he had been feuding with for some time.

Those plans changed on December 23. During the Day of Reckoning event, Wilder was soundly beaten by Joseph Parker while Anthony Joshua put in one of the best performances of his career in a win over Otto Wallin.

Following the results, talks began between Joshua and Ngannou, and just weeks later, the fight between the two heavyweight titans was confirmed.

Despite signing with the PFL, the Cameroon native may not compete in the SmartCage this year. Recent reports are claiming that the mixed martial arts star is likely to put his PFL career on hold and fight twice in boxing in 2024.

With his back up against the wall yet again, Francis Ngannou will step into the boxing ring and try his luck as the underdog. He will lock horns with Anthony Joshua in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on March 8.