Anthony Joshua vs. Francis Ngannou: Predictions, picks, odds for Saudi Arabia main event

Anthony Joshua will face boxing newcomer, Francis Ngannou, on March 8th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Joshua has an impressive record of 27 wins, 3 losses, and 0 draws, with 24 knockouts. He was the holder of the WBA, IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight belts before losing them to Oleksandr Usyk in September 2021. Joshua also won a gold medal in boxing representing Great Britain in the 2012 Summer Olympics.

In October 2023, the former UFC heavyweight champion Ngannou transitioned to boxing and fought against one of the best boxers in the game, Tyson Fury. Despite putting up a good bout, Ngannou lost to Fury by decision. It is not uncommon for UFC fighters to make the transition to boxing, with notable fighters such as Conor McGregor finding their way into the boxing ring, but cementing that you are ‘the real deal' is a tall task.

It is no surprise the veteran Anthony Joshua is the favorite heading into the ring against Francis Ngannou.

Anthony Joshua vs. Francis Ngannou predictions

The Standard: Joshua Anthony to win on points

George Flood writes: "Ngannou made a mockery of the widespread predictions that he would be schooled by a boxing masterclass against Fury. While it was a real off-night from the WBC champion, make no mistake, Ngannou definitely shocked him with his power and underrated abilities. The problem he has now is that absolutely nobody will be taking him lightly after that stellar and brave display, least of all Joshua."

Bleacher Report: Ngannou by KO, Rd. 4

Tom Taylor writes: "My crystal ball shows Joshua trying to keep this one very technical and measured, only to eat one of Ngannou's trademark wrecking balls anyway. The first one might not put the Brit away, but it will be enough to derail his game plan, which will open the door to more punishment. Eventually, Ngannou will land the kind of punch there's no coming back from, and shift his focus to the winner of Fury and Oleksandr Usyk's long-awaited May showdown."

Covers: Joshua won't be shocked

Danny Howard: "The big question is how Joshua will do against an opponent who isn’t going to back down and take his best shots as he trucks onward. Though Ngannou is outgunned by the more athletic and explosive Joshua, he’s not entirely out of the fight, especially if Joshua starts doubting himself or overinvests in trying to land a big knockout shot early in the fight. It should be another commendable showing for Ngannou, but without the element of surprise, Joshua knows what to look forward to. Joshua is the pick."

The Telegraph: AJ on points

Amir Khan, former world champion, writes: "AJ on points. Tricky fight but I think AJ will get in his groove. AJ needs to stay focused – he can get hurt if he loses focus and gets too comfortable.  I believe Ngannou will take AJ’s power but can AJ take Ngannou’s power ? We shall see. But I think if AJ fights like his last outing he will outbox Francis and get a good unanimous decision win. Mind you, there will be few knockdowns, I think."

Anthony Joshua vs. Francis Ngannou betting lines, odds

Anthony Joshua is favored to defeat Francis Ngannou, according to the BetMGM odds.

• Win Outright: Joshua (-450); Ngannou (+320)

• Win by KO/TKO: Joshua (-190); Ngannou (+380)

• Win by points or Decision: Joshua (+400); Ngannou (+2,200)

Looking to wager? Check out the best mobile sports betting apps offering betting promos in 2024.

How to watch Anthony Joshua vs. Francis Ngannou fight card channel, steaming information

The fight card begins at 11 a.m. ET with the main event taking place approximately at 5:50 p.m. ET, according to DAZN.

• Game day: Friday, March 8, 2024

• Game time: 11:00 a.m., ET

• TV channel: (Coverage available only on DAZN)

• Live stream: DAZN PPV

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Joshua vs. Ngannou: Predictions, odds, streaming info for main event