Ngannou vs Joshua: 5 MMA Fighters Who Went Into Boxing and Failed

• Anthony Joshua made it look easy against MMA superstar Francis Ngannou
• The boxer delivered a devastating knockout win over the ex-UFC champion
• Sports Brief takes a look at the MMA superstars who didn't succeed at boxing

Although MMA and Boxing differ significantly, occasional crossover between the two sports is observed.

Notable crossovers from Boxing include former champions such as James Toney, Ray Mercer, and Claressa Shields. However, MMA stars transitioning to boxing occur more consistently.

While some fighters like Anderson Silva or Clay Collard have achieved success with notable wins in boxing, many MMA fighters attempting the transition haven't found much success in the ring.

A recent example is Francis Ngannou, who suffered a second-round knockout against heavyweight titan Anthony Joshua, leading to disappointment in his second boxing bout, per Bleacher Report.

What is Jake Paul’s professional boxing record? Here is the list of all the big names he has defeated in the ring to date

Boxing

Sports Brief looks at the MMA stars who didn't succeed at boxing.

MMA Fighters Who Went Into Boxing And Failed

Ben Askren

Ben Askren is often regarded as one of the weakest MMA strikers in history, particularly in his UFC tenure. Therefore, it's understandable why Jake Paul, a burgeoning YouTuber turned boxer, targeted Askren for a highlight reel knockout in his comeback fight.

Some speculated that Askren might test Paul's endurance or rely on his durable chin to weather the storm. However, Askren's performance mirrored his UFC days—lacking power, technique, and footwork—leading to a swift knockout defeat within two minutes against an opponent previously known for his roles on the Disney Channel.

Tito Ortiz

Tito Ortiz, once hailed as a formidable wrestler and a pioneer in MMA, has experienced a decline in reputation over the years, largely due to multiple retirements and continuing to fight beyond his prime. Despite being well past his peak, Ortiz ventured into the boxing ring in 2021.

UFC lightweight rankings: Who is the best lightweight fighter?

UFC

At Triller Fight Club 3, Ortiz faced fellow MMA fighter Anderson Silva, who decisively dominated the bout, ultimately knocking Ortiz out cold in the first round.

Tyron Woodley

In his prime, Tyron Woodley was revered as one of the top welterweights in MMA history, but his downfall was sudden and severe. After losing his championship title to Kamaru Usman at UFC 235, Woodley endured three consecutive dominant losses before entering the ring against Jake Paul in 2021, per ESPN.

Facing the former YouTuber turned professional boxer, Woodley fought Paul in August 2021, ultimately losing via a split decision. Prior to the fight, the two made a bet, resulting in Woodley getting "I Love Jake Paul" tattooed on his finger.

Mark Hunt

Mark Hunt established himself as one of the UFC's most formidable strikers during his tenure from 2010 to 2018. Despite defeating numerous contenders, his career took a downturn, leading to his release after a three-fight losing streak in 2018. Following a hiatus, Hunt opted to return to boxing.

UFC flyweight rankings: Who is the best flyweight fighter?

UFC

Although he had two prior boxing bouts in 2000, Hunt officially made his comeback to the ring against rugby star turned-boxer Paul Gallen in 2020. Despite a competitive showing, Hunt ultimately lost the bout via a contentious decision.

Frank Mir

Regarded as one of the premier submission specialists in the octagon, he clinched the UFC Heavyweight Title and triumphed over formidable opponents like Brock Lesnar, Antonio Nogueira, and Mirko Cro Cop. Despite not being renowned for his striking, Mir ventured into the ring for Triller Fight Club's undercard featuring Jake Paul vs Ben Askren.

Challenging former IBF Cruiserweight Champion Steve Cunningham, Mir showcased unexpected prowess in the bout. Nonetheless, he fell short, succumbing to a unanimous decision loss.

Ngannou apologises to his fans

Sports Brief earlier reported that Cameroonian boxer Ngannou apologised to his fans after being knocked out by Anthony Joshua in their fight in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

A list of the best UFC fights in the history of the sport

UFC

The former UFC champion faced Joshua in his second professional boxing match after debuting in the sport against WBC heavyweight titleholder Tyson Fury last October.

Ngannou took to his official handle on X (formerly known as Twitter) to apologise to his fans for his awful performance in his fight against Joshua.