Don't leave boxing - Anthony Joshua advises Francis Ngannou after pummeling Cameroonian star

British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua has offered some soothing words to Francis Ngannou after taking him to the cleaners during their fight in Saudi Arabia.

34-year-old Anthony Joshua told Francis Ngannou, 37, that he remains an inspiration to many, despite suffering defeat in the second round of their heavyweight fight.

In a video post on X (formerly Twitter) by Matchroom Boxing, Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou could be seen sharing a hug after the fight.

The following conversation occurred between them;

Anthony Joshua: I say you're an inspiration, bruh.

Francis Ngannou: It is what it is

Anthony Joshua: Don't leave boxing, do it

Francis Ngannou: No, I will not

Many boxing fans expected Francis Ngannou to put up a brilliant fight after narrowly losing to Tyson Fury in his first fight, since switching MMA for the  pugilist sport.

However, it took only two rounds for former two-time world champion and Olympic gold medalist Anthony Joshua to land a heavy punch that Cameroonian Francis Ngannou couldn't recover from.

The high-profile fight which took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia had many world-class stars in attendance, including former Chelsea and Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho.

Ngannou's deafeat leaves a bitter taste in the mouth of many Cameroonians, and American rapper Drake would also be licking his wounds.

Drake lost over $615,000 (N950 million) after placing a bet in favour of Francis Ngannou to defeat Anthony Joshua.

Anthony Joshua smiles to the bank with $50 million while Ngannou rakes in $20 million despite suffering defeat.

It remains to be seen if Francis Ngannou will take Anthony Joshua's advice or he will return to MMA - a sport where he's much more established in.