Francis Ngannou and Thierry Henry: Cameroon MMA star and Arsenal legend team up at Joy Awards

Top Arab and international stars were honored at the fifth edition of the Joy Awards, which were held at the ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Under Turki Al Al Sheikh's chairmanship, the General Entertainment Authority hosted the event, which drew dignitaries, celebrities, and visitors from all over the world.

The awards presentation took place after the celebration began with creative performances.

International composer Hans Zimmer, Italian musician Andrea Bocelli, and American actor Morgan Freeman were among the notable winners.

Hattan Al-Saif, a Saudi mixed martial artist received the Sports Awards' Favorite Female Athlete, and Salem Al-Dawsari was named the Favorite Athlete.

Cameroonian mixed martial artist Francis Ngannou was at the event.

Ngannou who recently was in Nigeria for the holidays is now back in the Middle East.

In Lagos, Ngannou teamed up with Nigerian-American professional mixed martial artist Kamarudeen Usman as well as Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer Damini Ebunoluwa known professionally as Burna Boy.

At the joy awards, he teamed up with Arsenal legend Thierry Henry.

He posted photos of his meeting with a message that said, "The Joy Awards last night were one of a kind; they were filled with quality people.

"Thank you @riyadhseason @joyawards 🙏🏾."

Ngannou is expected to return to competitive action in 2025.