Tyson Fury marks his return to the ring with what some would consider an unexpected opponent. Taking on former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, the fight has caused quite a stir. Although millions around the world are keen to see the fight, there are some who have their reservations.
Previously, it was announced that ‘The Gypsy King’ and Ngannou would be locking horns inside the boxing ring and potentially in MMA as well. However, for a while, it appeared as though the plan was dead in the water. Following failed negotiations with Oleksandr Usyk, Fury re-entered negotiations with PFL’s big-name signee. Since then, there has been a lot of hype for what will be one of the biggest fights this year.
Seeing that Ngannou has never boxed before, they feel a bit put off by the fight. However, Tyson believes that Ngannou practically saved him from retirement Tyson says, “If I didn’t fight Ngannou, forget about the Usyk fight that’s been signed, I’d have been out all year without a fight”. Further, Fury adds, “So, I may as well have retired, it was Ngannou that’s kept me in boxing actually. Through Ngannou, I’ve ended up signing another massive deal, so everyone needs to thank Ngannou really”.
Speaking in an interview with iFL TV, Tyson revealed that he was not at all worried about public opinion either. Easily one of the most interesting fights that could happen right now, Fury believes that the Ngannou fight was the right move. Although many have tried to play down Ngannou’s capabilities, John Fury has time and again reminded everyone of the power the Cameroonian possesses.
Tyson Fury respects Francis Ngannou for stepping up for the fight
Throughout the lead-up to the fight, Tyson has remained very respectful towards Ngannou. In the past, we have seen the British boxer indulge in trash talk and mocking his opponents as well. However, he has seemingly refrained from it altogether, constantly reminding people that ‘The Predator’ is a very dangerous individual.
Prior to his exit from the UFC, Ngannou had racked up a streak of knockout finishes, including that of heavyweight GOAT, Stipe Miocic. However, many have major doubts about his boxing abilities, and even more so after his open workout showing. For the most part, Ngannou seemed extremely sluggish and way underprepared for the fight. Despite this, Tyson has still put in the most amount of preparation for this fight.
Speaking in their Face Off, Fury revealed that he had gone through a 12-week camp instead of his regular 6-week camp. Since Francis is new to the scene of boxing, Tyson will have to be prepared for the unexpected. Not only that, but he has also worked on his fitness, losing 150 lbs in 4 weeks to get in shape.
All things considered, despite many people doubting Ngannou, the fight is sure to be an unmissable one. According to Tyson, he will make $200 million in his fights against Ngannou and Usyk before the end of the year. Will he be able to stay the lineal heavyweight champion and the WBC king after both fights? Only time will tell.