Francis Ngannou blames Anthony Joshua's allegedly shady tactics for KO defeat, claims delayed start interrupted his rhythm on the big stage

Francis Ngannou's storybook boxing venture met an unfortunate setback at the hands of Anthony Joshua, who handed the former UFC heavyweight champion the second loss of his professional boxing career. However, Ngannou has offered his explanation for the factors that contributed to the devastating second-round knockout loss against Joshua.

Following his stellar boxing debut against Tyson Fury in October 2023, Ngannou was primed to deliver another remarkable display against Joshua. However, the UK boxing star rendered a one-sided beatdown on 'The Predator' with multiple knockdowns and a highlight reel straight right that put his opponent out like a light.

However, from Ngannou's perspective, his performance was marred by a series of logistical and psychological setbacks that may have contributed to the underwhelming performance. Speaking in a recent episode of the Joe Rogan Experience, the 37-year-old painted a picture of a chaotic pre-fight scenario with recurrent delays and inconsistent schedule.

He asserted that the prolonged waiting period was mentally and physically draining. Moreover, early arrival at the boxing venue and the late start time of his fight did not serve his interest in any way either. Ngannou found himself disoriented since his pre-fight routine was disrupted as the fight time dragged on. He said:

"Even at that time, I didn't know what was happening. It was after everything that I was like what's going on? I got to the point where I was like so tired... I was in the locker room hitting mitts, and I [sat] down, and I felt asleep. I told Eric Nicksick, 'Bro, I feel asleep, something's wrong. I feel like I want to sleep. I'm sweating.' But we just kept doing [pre-fight routine]."

Check out Ngannou narrating the whole episode below (15:45):

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Francis Ngannou confirms that he will fight by the end of the year

It has been a difficult year for Francis Ngannou, who first lost to Anthony Joshua via knockout in the second round of their March 2024 clash, and tragically lost his 15-month-old son Kobe shortly after.

Following his exit from the UFC, Ngannou signed a high-profile multi-fight deal with the Professional Fighters League (PFL). The Washington-based organization catered to Ngannou's desire to pursue boxing bouts in addition to other lucrative terms in the contract.

Speaking about his next fight in the aforementioned episode of the Joe Rogan Experience, Ngannou said:

"We [PFL and I] have a good relationship. I have some fights. I will be fighting by the end of the year. I think Renan Ferreira. He's the guy... They're working on October. It's not finalized yet... But there was talk about October 19."

Catch Ngannou's comments below: