While Joshua is the overwhelming favorite in Riyadh, Ngannou, a 37-year-old former UFC star who is gearing up for just his second professional boxing match, thoroughly outclassed Tyson Fury last year, going the full ten rounds in a bout that Fury controversially lost on points.

That will give Joshua, 34, a lot to consider as he considers a possible matchup with Filip Hrgovic for the world title or with the victor of Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk in May.

“We were doing the promo, and he was very chilled, very relaxed,” Ngannou told reporters at a workout on Tuesday. I asked him if he was OK, because he looked a little nervous or something. I asked him if he was OK, because I was OK. I had no problems. I was just talking around, laughing. I believe that between the two of us, we have enough experience to know what steps to take to reach our goals.”

Joshua opted against hitting the pads during his own workout, instead shadowboxing alongside a number of local young boxers invited to attend.

“It’s a great chance for me to let other people use the platform that I’ve created to express themselves and their talent,” Joshua said.

“I am aware of how strongly Saudi Arabians support boxing and overall health. Their confidence will be boosted if their parents see them on TV, which is something I gave them the opportunity to do. I’m here to fight; I wasn’t acknowledging (the fans) with all due respect. I’m here to fight. This is my life. Talk is cheap.”