Boxing and MMA fans, get ready for an epic showdown! Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou are finally stepping into the ring to settle their long-standing online feud. The WBC champion and the UFC legend have been going back and forth on social media for years, and now they will face off in a historic crossover fight. Here's everything you need to know ahead of this huge clash.
Background: The Feud That Led to the Fight
It all started over a year ago when Ngannou entered the ring to confront Fury after his knockout win against Dillian Whyte. However, the fight was put on hold as Ngannou was still contracted to the UFC. But now, after leaving the UFC and signing with The Professional Fighters League, Ngannou has been given the green light to switch to boxing and challenge Fury.
What's at Stake: Legacies and Reputations
This fight is not just about settling a feud, but also about legacies and reputations. A win for Ngannou would be one of the sport's greatest shocks, while Fury would suffer a disastrous defeat. Both fighters have their eyes set on big future fights, with Fury already lined up to face Oleksandr Usyk for the undisputed heavyweight titles. So, there's a lot on the line for both fighters.
The Trainers: Who's in Their Corners?
Fury is trained by Sugarhill Steward, nephew to the legendary Emanuel Steward, while Ngannou's striking coach is former kickboxer Dewey Cooper. In Ngannou's corner, he'll also have his head MMA trainer Eric Nicksick and boxing icon Mike Tyson, who has been mentoring him throughout his camp.
What Belts Are on the Line?
Since Ngannou is making his professional boxing debut and is not ranked by the WBC, he cannot challenge for Fury's belt. However, the WBC has introduced a "Riyadh Champion" belt for this showdown. If Ngannou wins, he would be deemed the mythical champ.
When and Where Is the Fight?
The fight will take place this weekend on Saturday, October 28 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Ring-walks are expected to begin around 10pm UK time. It will be a 10-round professional fight, and exhibition rules will not be in place.
How to Watch: Channel and Live Streaming
The fight will be shown live on TNT Sports Box Office in the UK, with a PPV price of £21.95. You can also live stream the action from the TNT Sports Box Office app, which is available for download on mobile and tablet devices.
The Full Card: What Other Fights to Expect
Aside from the main event, there are other exciting fights on the card. One of the most anticipated is the clash between Davie Adeleye and Fabio Wardley, who had a heated confrontation at the press conference. Here's the full card (subject to change):
- Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou
- Fabio Wardley vs. David Adeleye
- Joseph Parker vs. Simon Kean
- Arslanbek Makhmudov vs. Junior Anthony Wright
- Moses Itauma vs. Istvan Bernath
- Carlos Takam vs. Martin Bakole
- Jack McGann vs. Alcibiade Duran Galvan
What They've Said: Fury vs. Ngannou
Fury has expressed his excitement for the fight, saying, "He's a monster of a guy, I'm a monster of a guy, so it will be a clash of the titans for sure." Ngannou has been waiting for this moment and said, "My dream was always to box, and to box the best. This is my opportunity to make that dream come true and cement my position as the baddest man on the planet."
Get ready for an unforgettable showdown between two heavyweight giants! Will Fury continue his winning streak, or will Ngannou pull off a shocking victory? Tune in this weekend to find out!
