Joshua vs Ngannou: Second round of the CAF ‘Nigeria vs Cameroon’

As the excitement from Nigeria’s Super Eagles defeating the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon in the Africa Cup of Nations lingers, Nigerians are now shifting their focus to another anticipated showdown – the boxing match between British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua and Cameroon-born fighter Francis Ngannou, which some have dubbed “Nigeria vs Cameroon Part 2.”

Following Nigeria’s impressive 2-0 victory over Cameroon, securing their spot in the quarter-finals against Angola, the Nigerian public has taken to social media to rally support for Joshua in his upcoming bout against Ngannou. Expressing a mix of national pride and friendly banter, social media posts have amplified the significance of this match, making it more than just a boxing bout.

A Twitter user, @Sports_Doctor2, emphasized the broader context of the fight, stating, “Anthony Joshua, this fight is now more than just your fight, it’s ‘Nigeria vs Cameroon’ part 2. No Gree For Francis Ngannou oooh.” Another user, @LawrenceOkoroPG, humorously speculated, “

Somebody say na Anthony Joshua go suffer this beating wey Nigeria dey beat Cameroon.” Meanwhile, @aai_austin suggested, “If I were Anthony Joshua, I’m cancelling that fight with Francis Ngannou. Make one man no pay for national beef.”

Cameroonians, stung by the recent football loss, have also voiced their opinions on social media. A Facebook post by Jude Asahmbom III warned, “If Nigeria win Cameroon, na Anthony Joshua go suffer the consequences.”

@Beardedzz another Cameroonian posted:

“If Nigeria wins, let Anthony Joshua just prepare himself to end up at the a Hospital. Ngannou go unleash our anger on him !!! #AFCON2023#CAN2023”

The heightened anticipation for this boxing match stems from the desire for national bragging rights, with both Nigerian and Cameroonian fans adding an extra layer of rivalry to the already intense bout. While the recent football victory fuels the friendly banter, it also adds an element of revenge for Ngannou, who may seek to avenge Cameroon’s loss in the ring.

Scheduled for Friday, March 8, 2024, in Saudi Arabia, the heavyweight bout between Joshua and Ngannou, labeled ‘Knockout Chaos,’ promises an electrifying showdown. As the two colossal punchers prepare to collide, both fighters recently came face to face in London to publicize the event, building anticipation and heightening expectations for what is sure to be an epic battle.

In the coming weeks, fans from both nations will eagerly await the outcome, hoping for another victory to celebrate or avenge previous losses. The ‘Nigeria vs Cameroon Part 2’ narrative adds an extra layer of excitement to the boxing world, transcending individual achievements and transforming the bout into a symbol of national pride for both countries.