The worst kept secret in combat sports is now official. The WBC heavyweight champion, Tyson Fury will clash with the former UFC heavyweight champion and PFL member, Francis Ngannou, as per multiple sources including ESPN’s, Mike Coppinger. As per a press release, “An agreement has been reached with Queensberry, Top Rank and Ngannou’s promotional banner, GIMIK Fight Promotions, to partner with Riyadh Season to host the event.”. The fight will take place on October 28th.
The bout is set to be contested under ‘standard boxing rules’ and will not be an exhibition. Three judges will be ringside, adopting the 10-point must system. It isn’t yet clear if Fury’s WBC title will be on the line or if the fight will count towards his professional record. Supposedly, the judges won’t be needed, with both men having a history of knockouts and promising an entertaining fight.
Tyson Fury commented, “As soon as that bell goes, it’ll be bombs away! This guy is supposed to be the hardest puncher in the world, but let’s see how he reacts when he gets hit by the Big GK (gypsy king)”.
The Baddest Man On The Planet 👑
What will be done in the kingdom will echo around the world 🥊 🇸🇦 @francis_ngannou #GameChanger #RiyadhSeason #FuryNgnannou pic.twitter.com/z6Ruk40YsZ
— TYSON FURY (@Tyson_Fury) July 11, 2023
Ngannou has commented further on the announcement with a promotional video.
Never doubt a man with hope and faith.#FuryNgannou | 10.28.2023 | #RiyadhSeason pic.twitter.com/44pfCQgGgq
— Francis Ngannou (@francis_ngannou) July 11, 2023
The fight will make the first time that Ngannou has competed under the rules set. He last competed in a winning effort against Ciryl Gane last January. He is enjoying a six-fight winning run, however, all have been under MMA rules.
Fury is undefeated in professional boxing, boasting a 33-0-1, last time out, knocking out Derek Chisora after a 10-round beating.
Keep it locked to MMASucka for plenty more build up to the biggest crossover in boxing history.
