Titans of the combat sports world collide Saturday when WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury meets former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in a 10-round boxing main event. Their showdown tops the main Fury vs. Ngannou fight card (2 p.m. ET) from Riyadh Arena in Saudi Arabia. Although the fight has more novelty appeal than the anticipation of a world-championship showdown, there is still plenty at stake. Fury has never lost a boxing match and his only non-victory was a draw against Deontay Wilder in the first fight of their memorable trilogy. However, Fury was knocked down four times in that three-fight series and Ngannou, who is widely considered the heaviest puncher in UFC history, has vowed to send Fury to the canvas.
Cameras surround a ring at a gym Francis Ngannou has opened himself in Las Vegas. For years, Ngannou could be seen every day at the UFC Performance Institute, but his scenery changed in 2023. A full-size boxing ring takes center stage in the facility, with the word "GIMIK" printed loudly above it. A trolling nod to the notion some have that his crossing over into the boxing world is nothing more than a farce. But at least on the surface, today, he looks like a boxer. And nothing might aid that visual more than the man by his side: Mike Tyson.
The MMA powerhouse has not graced the octagon for nearly two years, his last feat being a victory over Ciryl Gane at UFC 270 in January 2022. To bolster his transition to boxing, Ngannou has found a mentor in the form of legendary boxer Mike Tyson, who has been sharing his invaluable insights.
Rumors have hit the internet regarding the extent of Tyson's involvement. While some claim that he has assumed the role of head coach for Ngannou, others remain skeptical, questioning the true nature of their partnership, and pointing towards the presence of Teddy Atlas as the real coach in Ngannou's corner.
In one of the most highly-anticipated fights of the year, WBC heavyweight champ Fury faces former UFC heavyweight champ Ngannou in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The 10-round bout — dubbed the “Rumble in Riyadh” — will be fought in a regulation boxing ring with three judges scoring the fight under current boxing rules.
As the boxer in this matchup, most predictions have Fury favored to win. The British champ brings a 33-0-1 record into the ring while Ngannou is making his boxing debut. Still, the Cameroonian — who is currently signed to the Professional Fighters League — is expected to put up a good challenge, with oddsmakers noting his agility and striking style, which could catch Fury off guard.
Read more
Taylor Swift gets net worth above $1 billion from Eras Tour World Series Game 1: Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Texas Rangers (5-6)
Sarah H
Also on site :
- Trump's Fed criticism sinks stocks, dollar
- The Nets have the cap space and extra picks to upgrade this summer — that doesn’t mean they will
- John Cena Attacked By Former Rival On Raw, First Title Defence Opponent Teased