Former world heavyweight champion, British boxer Anthony Joshua (28-3, 25 KOs), says he was prepared for a full-fledged fight against former UFC champion Francis Ngannou (0-2), not a quick knockout.
"I was prepared for 10 rounds, a tough fight. He’s a big guy, strong guy with a different sense because he's an MMA fighter. He's a tough guy. I thought I would win anyway, but it happened much sooner than I expected.
You don't get along with some fighters, so sometimes there are no talks after the fight. There’s also a certain level of respect – we had a lot of respect for each other with Ngannou.
I encouraged him because the guy had a great career. Don't let this moment define his career. I've lost before – it’s hard," said Joshua on The Jonathan Ross Show.
Joshua knocked out Ngannou in the bout that took place on March 8. Anthony finished the fight in the 2nd round.