Ryan Garcia has issued a noteworthy cautionary message to MMA fighters contemplating a switch from the Octagon to the boxing ring, following Anthony Joshua’s commanding second-round knockout of Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia on Friday night.
The British boxing sensation showcased a stellar performance, sending the former UFC heavyweight champion to the canvas three times within the initial two rounds. Ngannou, making his second foray into professional boxing, had previously stunned Tyson Fury in a bout, flooring the Gypsy King. However, his encounter with Anthony Joshua proved to be a harsh reality check for the MMA convert.
Ryan Garcia Sends Stern Warning to MMA Fighters Following Anthony Joshua KO
“Let this be a big warning to MMA fighters!” Garcia expressed on X (formerly Twitter). “Stop coming to boxing; it will only get worse. It’s more even if we just go to your sport! Over! One punch.”
Ngannou’s venture into boxing isn’t unique, with other MMA stars like Ben Askren and Tyron Woodley having also tried their hand in the squared circle. Conor McGregor famously faced Floyd Mayweather in a boxing match in 2017, albeit ending in defeat against the undefeated champion.
Friday night also saw Tommy Fury calling out McGregor, aiming for a fight as soon as he recuperates from a hand injury.
Garcia Sends Well Wishes to Francis Ngannou
In the aftermath of Ngannou’s defeat, Garcia extended his well wishes to the fallen fighter, acknowledging his courage in the face of adversity. “Sending healing prayers to Francis! Your bravery and guts should be commendable. Congratulations Anthony Joshua.”
The stage is now set for a potential blockbuster showdown between Joshua and his compatriot, Tyson Fury. Joshua eyes the opportunity to unify the division by defeating Oleksandr Usyk, currently holding all the belts, in their postponed undisputed clash on May 18.
Following Ngannou’s previous controversial bout with Fury, where many, including Joshua, believed Ngannou deserved the victory, Joshua expressed his respect for Ngannou’s skills. “Francis Ngannou beat the WBC heavyweight champion of the world. I should be WBC heavyweight champion of the world right now! He’s a great fighter,” stated Joshua after Friday’s bout.
Next Up?
Meanwhile, Garcia has been gearing up for a showdown with Devin Haney for the WBC super lightweight championship in April. However, concerns over Garcia’s well-being have surfaced in recent weeks due to a series of alarming messages posted on his social media accounts, including references to the occult, claims of witnessing human trafficking, and sharing a video suggesting violence.
Despite these concerns, Oscar De La Hoya, Garcia’s promoter, has brushed off worries regarding Garcia’s readiness for the upcoming fight. “I’ve been in touch with Ryan Garcia,” De La Hoya assured Fight Hub TV. “He looks good. He looks ready. I’m telling you.”
What do you make of Ryan Garcia’s comments? Let us know!
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
