Joshua Defeats Ngannou With Brutal Second-Round KO
Two-time world champion, Anthony Joshua knocked out mixed martial arts star, Francis Ngannou in just the second round of their widely-hyped heavyweight clash on Saturday.
Joshua had his Cameroonian opponent on the canvas in the first round and twice more in the second in a brutal and brief exhibition of punching power.
Ngannou, 37, a former UFC heavyweight champion, was taking part in only his second professional boxing match, having lost a split decision to Tyson Fury in an October fight that saw him put the WBC champion on the canvas in the third round.
“I thought this fight was something for the broadcasters to get behind,” Joshua said after his quickfire victory.
“When I saw the fight with Tyson Fury, I thought, ‘I want some of that’. He is a great champion and this doesn’t take anything away from his capabilities.
The knockout
A frowning Joshua looked full of purpose as he strutted to the ring with confidence. He kneeled down and recited a prayer in his corner.
Joshua drew the loudest reaction, a mixture of boos and jeers. He seemed completely undeterred, his eyes set firmly on Ngannou.
And it was a near-perfect start for the Watford-born fighter. Ngannou had just narrowly missed with a lead left hand as Joshua remained calm and composed.
AJ extended his backhand to land a flush right down the pipe. By flooring Ngannou, he had done within three minutes what Fury failed to do in 10 rounds four months ago.
A stunned Ngannou got up on the count of eight and saw out the round.
Joshua has become a smarter fighter in recent years, honing his technical ability. He doubled his jab, bided his time and waited for an opening.
Another right hand had Ngannou clamouring on the floor. He beat the count in the nick of time but the writing was on the wall.
The finishing punch was one which will undoubtedly take centre stage in future Joshua knockout highlights reel.
BBC
