Francis Ngannou may have been knocked out by Anthony Joshua this Friday, 8th March in Riyadh, but the aftermath of their bout has sparked a flurry of reactions from fighters across the combat sports world. Among those chiming in is none other than the controversial YouTube sensation turned professional boxer, Jake Paul, who has emphasized on Joshua’s “Activity & focus” as the driving forces to his victory.
Ngannou’s Fall and Joshua’s Triumph
In a fight that left fans on the edge of their seats, Joshua unleashed a thunderous knockout blow that sent Ngannou sprawling. The French-Cameroonian fighter, known for his resilience and power, had never been stopped in his 22 professional fights—20 in mixed martial arts and one each in boxing and kickboxing. But against Joshua, he found himself out of his depth, unable to withstand the British boxer’s onslaught.
Jake Paul’s Take
Paul, who has made waves in the boxing world with his unorthodox journey from internet celebrity to a legitimate fighter, took to X (formerly) Twitter to share his thoughts.
Following the fight, Jake wrote, “Francis Ngannou is one of the greatest fighters of all time. Respect due. Anthony Joshua is back. Activity & focus drives dominance.”
Francis Ngannou is one of the greatest fighters of all time. Respect due.
Anthony Joshua is back.
Activity & focus drives dominance.— Jake Paul (@jakepaul) March 9, 2024
Ryan Garcia’s Warning to MMA Fighters
Aside from Paul’s tweet, there’s another massive boxing icon who’s words has been echoing through the combat sports fandom and that’s none other than Ryan Garcia, who missed a vehement warning for MMA fighters eyeing a transition to boxing.
Garcia tweeted, “Let this be a BIG WARNING to MMA fighters!! Stop coming to boxing; it will only get worse. It’s more even if we just go to your sport! OVER! ONE PUNCH.”
Let this be A BIG WARNING to MMA fighters!! Stop coming to boxing it will only get worst. ITS more even if we just go to your sport! OVER! ONE PUNCH.
Sending healing prayers to FRANCIS! Your bravery and guts should be commendable.
CONGRATULATIONS Anthony Joshua. https://t.co/D5TMyUGqcQ
— RYAN GARCIA (@RyanGarcia) March 9, 2024
While the fight itself was a spectacle, the financial stakes were equally significant. Ngannou reportedly earned a hefty payday, and fellow fighters took notice. Former UFC champion Rampage Jackson tweeted, “At least Francis made 20 mil.”
At least Francis made 20 mil😞
— Rampage Jackson (@Rampage4real) March 9, 2024
Jake Paul’s tweet captures the essence of the moment—a mix of respect for Ngannou’s legacy and acknowledgment of Joshua’s resurgence. As the combat sports world buzzes with reactions, one thing remains certain: the sweet science of boxing continues to deliver drama, surprises, and lessons for fighters old and new.
ALSO READ: “I didn’t feel the punch” – Francis Ngannou’s Playful Take About Getting KO’ed By Anthony Joshua
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