Promoter Eddie Hearn admits that Anthony Joshua’s recent performance may make him appear vulnerable but is open to the idea of a match against former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou.
Eddie Hearn, promoter of Anthony Joshua, is fully aware that Joshua’s recent unanimous decision win over Jermaine Franklin was not an impressive bounce-back performance. The British heavyweight had previously lost three of five bouts and dropped all of his major titles. Hearn acknowledges that if there ever was a time when Joshua may appear to be a vulnerable target for a high-profile free agent from another combat sport, such as former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, it would be now.
Given the current situation, Hearn won’t begrudge anyone who throws Joshua into Ngannou’s matchmaking crosshairs following the Franklin win, and he’s not entirely opposed to the idea either. During an interview on The MMA Hour, Hearn stated, “Personally, you cannot in a million years, with Francis Ngannou’s ability in boxing and pedigree in boxing, go in and compete technically, skill-wise — not just with AJ, but with any top-20 heavyweight in the world. But in that division, the difference is, you could knock someone out.” He also mentioned that fighters may have a better chance against AJ based on his recent performance, which translates into considering a match with Francis Ngannou.
Ngannou is currently a combat sports free agent after splitting from the UFC following his successful title defense over Ciryl Gane. He has made it clear that his pursuit of a big-name boxing matchup is his top priority before he returns to MMA, and has spoken openly about negotiating a potential match against Wilder. Hearn is open to adding Joshua’s name into the mix for Ngannou if that’s what Joshua wants, but it’s not his top priority. Instead, he hopes to book Joshua a return fight in 2023 against an opponent who can properly prepare him for a blockbuster showdown against heavyweight boxing’s best names.
Hearn suggested potential opponents like Dillian Whyte, Otto Wallin, and Joe Joyce, but emphasized that he wants Joshua to be in top form, as he said, “I just want him to go in with the best chance that he can have.” He noted that what he saw in Joshua’s performance against Franklin wasn’t an indication of him firing on all cylinders.