Anthony Joshua continues his rehabilitation towards being a world-level heavyweight force when he takes on Francis Ngannou for a heavyweight bout in Saudi Arabia in March.
Although no belts will be on the line, this represents another payday for both men as well as a chance for Joshua to keep the momentum going as he climbs off the metaphorical canvas after a pair of defeats by Oleksandr Usyk.
The plan was for Joshua to fight Deontay Wilder this spring but that was derailed when the American lost to underrated, reliable heavweight Joseph Parker just before Christmas.
Ngannou, an MMA fighter by trade, gave a respectable account of himself against Tyson Fury in October but really ought to be the sort of opponent that Joshua is putting away in style if he is to get back to the top of the division.
By the time Joshua and Ngannou fight the world will know the outcome of Fury and Usyk’s clash in February with Eddie Hearn and Joshua keen to suggest that Joshua gets a crack at the winner.
When is Joshua v Ngannou?
The bout is scheduled for Friday March 8th.
Where is the fight being held?
The bout will be contested in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, which is making a big play to become the new premium destination for world sporting events. Joshua fought there recently when he beat Otto Wallin.
How can I watch it in the UK?
Television details have not been announced, but the fight is guaranteed to be on pay-per-view, probably at a cost of more than £20.
Who is on the undercard line-up?
Again, details have not been announced.