Anthony Joshua applauded Francis Ngannou during the post-fight press conference on Friday night (March 9) in a display of mutual respect.

The British boxer applauded the former UFC champion shortly after defeating him in a stunning second-round KO.

Joshua, 34, floored the former UFC champion in the first round before securing the 25th knockout of his career minutes later.

“How are you champ?” AJ asked while pulling out a seat beside him for his opponent.

Ngannou told reporters: “It wasn’t my day, he was just way better than me today.”

“He was quite special because he stopped me, he did what Tyson Fury couldn’t do,” the 37-year-old said.

Joshua interjected: “You beat Tyson, you beat him.”

The aftermath of the fight has sparked conversations about the differing outcomes between this bout and the encounters involving Tyson Fury. Joshua and Ngannou have acknowledged the significance of their victory by highlighting what sets their achievements apart from Fury’s experiences. While Fury remains a formidable opponent in his own right, the contrasting results have added a layer of intrigue to the discussion surrounding these fighters’ abilities and the tactics employed in the ring.

Anthony Joshua, known for his exceptional boxing skills and previous titles, expressed his pride and satisfaction in accomplishing what Tyson Fury could not. Joshua believes that his victory in the second round solidifies his position as a dominant force in the sport. The win serves as a testament to his relentless training, strategic approach, and unwavering focus.

Francis Ngannou, renowned for his formidable presence in the heavyweight division, echoed Joshua’s sentiments. Ngannou emphasized the significance of his victory in the context of Fury’s previous fights. The knockout victory in the second round not only showcased his raw power but also highlighted his ability to capitalize on opportunities, ultimately setting him apart from his contemporaries.

The contrasting outcomes between these recent fights and Fury’s bouts have generated intense discussion within the combat sports community. While each fighter possesses unique strengths and styles, the victories achieved by Joshua and Ngannou have solidified their positions as dominant forces within their respective divisions. The conversation surrounding Fury’s performances and the implications for his future matches has added an intriguing layer to the narrative of the sport and the ongoing rivalries.

The recent second-round knockout victories by Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou have sent shockwaves through the combat sports world, prompting comparisons to Tyson Fury’s experiences. Joshua and Ngannou’s reflections on their achievements highlight the significance of their victories and the contrasting outcomes in relation to Fury’s fights. These triumphs have solidified their positions as formidable fighters and reignited discussions about the dynamics within the sport. As the boxing and mixed martial arts communities eagerly await the next chapters in the careers of these exceptional athletes, the impact of their victories continues to resonate and shape the landscape of combat sports.