Francis Ngannou understands Anthony Joshua’s boxing power better than most. Earlier last year, the former UFC heavyweight champion faced Joshua inside a boxing ring and experienced firsthand how dangerous the former world titleholder can be.
With Joshua now scheduled to face Jake Paul in Miami, Ngannou was asked to give his thoughts on a fight that has generated attention across both boxing and mixed martial arts circles.
Surprise at the weight decision
For Ngannou, the most striking aspect of the matchup is Paul’s willingness to compete at full heavyweight rather than seeking a smaller opponent.
“I was surprised he moved up to heavyweight like and he’s not going for less of a heavyweight,” Ngannou said on The Ariel Helwani Show. “I think AJ wins. I mean, do you think otherwise?”
Ngannou emphasized that heavyweight boxing carries a level of risk that cannot be compared to lighter divisions, especially against a seasoned boxer like Joshua.
Who seems more confident ahead of their fight tomorrow night? Jake or Joshua 👀 pic.twitter.com/OdUA3VCNic
— MVP – Most Valuable Promotions (@MostVpromotions) December 19, 2025
Expectation of a quick ending
When the discussion turned to how the fight might play out, Ngannou did not shy away from offering a blunt assessment. He believes the matchup could end rapidly once punches are exchanged.
“Yeah, I would say so (Paul gets knocked out in the first round). But why exactly Jake Paul took that fight? That’s what I’m excited to see,” Ngannou said. “You know, what is his strategy.”
While predicting an early finish, Ngannou admitted his curiosity lies in understanding the game plan behind Paul’s decision.
Despite heavily favoring Joshua, Ngannou acknowledged that Paul has built his boxing career by stepping into situations few expected him to survive.
“AJ versus Jake, I think besides the Jake team, nobody is really like, okay Jake’s got this. He can pull this off,” Ngannou continued. “Maybe he’s going to surprise us.”
Francis Ngannou’s UFC chapter evolved significantly after his setback against Derrick Lewis. He remained active in the promotion, returning to claim heavyweight gold by defeating Stipe Miocic in their second encounter. That championship reign continued with a successful defense against Ciryl Gane.
Following the Gane fight, Ngannou and UFC officials entered extended contract discussions that ultimately stalled. With no agreement reached, Ngannou spent the next year away from competition. In early 2023, he officially stepped into free agency, surrendered the heavyweight title, and later committed to a new path by signing with the Professional Fighters League.
