Anthony Joshua Shows Class With Touching Message to Francis Ngannou After Brutal KO

• Anthony Joshua made it look easy against MMA superstar Francis Ngannou
• The boxer gave the Cameroonian fighter a pep talk after his brutal knockout
• Anthony Joshua wants to see 37-year-old Ngannou keep boxing

Heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua displayed his sportsmanship after defeating Francis Ngannou on Friday night.

AJ demonstrated his formidable skills by scoring three knockdowns and sending the former UFC heavyweight champion into slumber within two rounds in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Following a thorough examination by attentive medical personnel, Joshua encouraged Ngannou not to quit boxing despite facing his second consecutive defeat in the sport.

Although 'The Predator' had previously pushed WBC heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury to the edge of defeat last October, he couldn't match Joshua's prowess at the Kingdom Arena, per the BBC.

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Nevertheless, Joshua believes Ngannou is a valuable asset to the heavyweight division, as he expressed in his post-fight interview with DAZN.

"He is a great champion and this doesn't take anything away from his capabilities," Joshua said.

"I told him not to leave boxing. He's two fights in and he fought the best.

"It only takes one shot in the heavyweight division. Joseph Parker is one of my favourite fighters, he had it tough and look at him now.

"I'm just doing it while I'm here and making the most of it. In five years I won't be fighting.

"The people of Cameroon, I appreciate you. Africa united, respect. Everyone here tonight, I appreciate you. Thank you to Francis Ngannou."

What's next for Joshua

Joshua is set to face the winner of Fury's anticipated four-belt undisputed showdown against WBA, WBO, and IBF champion Oleksandr Usyk on May 18th.

Following this, a contracted rematch between the heavyweight duo is scheduled later in the year, paving the way for Joshua to confront the top heavyweight in what promises to be a colossal event.

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However, it remains uncertain whether he will remain inactive until that time.

What's next for Ngannou

Ngannou meanwhile faces a significant decision after experiencing another defeat in boxing.

PFL is urging him to make a return to MMA to face their heavyweight champion Renan Ferreira, a towering 6ft 8in Brazilian knockout specialist who recently issued a challenge to him.

The future paths of both men remain uncertain, with only time revealing their next moves.

Joshua speaks on Fury, Deontay Wilder

Sports Brief earlier reported on Joshua opening up on why he is yet to face Fury and Deontay Wilder, two of the top heavyweight boxers.

The 34-year-old British-Nigerian boxer has now come out to defend his boxing record, disclosing that he has in the past signed contracts that would see him fight both Wilder and Fury.

However, none of the planned fights has materialised, with Joshua citing reasons beyond his control.