Promoter Eddie Hearn has already mapped out Anthony Joshua’s next three bouts, which will ultimately lead to his claim as the undisputed heavyweight champion.
First Stage: Ngannou Showdown
On March 8th, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the two-time heavyweight champion Joshua (27-3, 24 KOs) will face Francis Ngannou (0-1) in a ten-round bout.
“The timing is perfect for AJ to defeat Ngannou and for Fury to emerge victorious. We acknowledge the existence of this fight and the subsequent rematch, but we can foresee the outcome,” Hearn shared with iFL TV.
It would be unwise for Joshua to solely focus on knocking out Ngannou, as this approach may backfire and result in a negative outcome.
Joshua is not currently performing at his peak potential in his 12-year career. However, thanks to Hearn’s strategic matchmaking, he has managed to keep Joshua’s momentum going without facing any formidable opponents. Consequently, he is now on the verge of competing for the undisputed title without encountering any significant threats.
If Ngannou can replicate the same successful shots he landed on Fury in October, it is highly likely that he will knock out Joshua.
Second Stage: Fury vs. Usyk Aftermath
Hearn is hopeful that he can expedite Joshua’s path to a world title fight against the winner of the upcoming clash between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury, scheduled for May 18th. However, this will depend on whether the Saudi Arabian authorities permit Joshua to bypass the rematch clause between the two champions.
“You are aware of the influential power of His Excellency,” Hearn stated with optimism. “When presented with the opportunity to facilitate the biggest fight in the sport’s history, I am confident he will find a solution that satisfies all parties. Nonetheless, this matter is currently irrelevant.”
It remains uncertain whether the Saudis will grant Joshua the opportunity to face the victor of the Fury vs. Usyk showdown.
Third Stage: Potential IBF Mandatory
Hearn mentioned that if Joshua is unable to secure a direct shot at the Fury-Usyk winner following the Ngannou bout, an alternative option would be for him to face Filip Hrgovic for a world title.
“If AJ emerges victorious, he will then confront Filip Hrgovic for a world title, which is perfectly acceptable. Subsequently, we will set up a match against the winner of Fury vs. Usyk.”
According to the Source boxingnews24.com