In the electrifying world of combat sports, narratives often intertwine, creating unexpected twists and turns. The recent clash between Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou has sparked heated debates, leaving fans and pundits pondering the impact of this unlikely encounter. Is Tyson Fury truly responsible for catapulting Ngannou into the boxing limelight?
Francis Ngannou: The Underestimated Challenger
Francis Ngannou (0-1), a former UFC heavyweight champion, stepped into the boxing ring for the first time to face the formidable Tyson Fury (34-0-1, 24 KOs) back in October last year in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The stakes were high, and expectations were mixed.
Tyson Fury, the reigning WBC heavyweight titlist, found himself in an unexpected battle. Ngannou, with no professional boxing experience, leveled Fury with a thunderous left hook and dropped the Briton on the canvas, almost causing the biggest upset of the year.
The MMA star’s resilience and competitive spirit turned the 10-round contest into a nail-biting affair. While Fury ultimately secured the victory via a highly controversial split decision, Ngannou’s performance defied all expectations.
Ngannou’s Meteoric Rise & Where Fury Claims His Influence
Despite the loss, Francis Ngannou’s stock soared. He became a ranked heavyweight, and his next opponent? None other than Anthony Joshua (27-3, 24 KOs), whom he will meet on 8th March back in Riyadh.
Ngannou’s journey from the UFC cage to the boxing ring captured imaginations worldwide. His debut was nothing short of spectacular, leaving fans wondering if they witnessed the birth of a new boxing sensation.
However, “The Gypsy King” believes his credit is due. During a recent appearance on “The Stomping Ground” podcast, Tyson Fury took credit for Ngannou’s newfound fame.
“I think it’s a great fight, it’s a good fight,” said Fury. “When I was fighting Ngannou, it was ‘a mismatch’ and ‘a bullsh*t fight,’ but it is what it is, and styles make fights. … I’m not sure what people expected of the man before that.”
“I know it was supposed to be a 1,000-1 shot and he was useless, and he couldn’t fight and all that. But he proved everyone wrong, so fantastic for him. I put him on the map, made him a multi-millionaire, and now I’m making him even more money. So he needs to thank me. He needs to get on his knees and kiss my feet, doesn’t he, for what I’ve done for him?” he added. [H/T MMA Junkie]
Is Fury really to credit for Ngannou’s boxing stardom?
Francis Ngannou’s near-upset against Tyson Fury transcends mere statistics. It symbolizes a paradigm shift—a reminder that boxing’s allure lies in its unpredictability. While Fury remains the WBC heavyweight champion, the name of Ngannoy, now a part of the PFL roster, resonates across both MMA and boxing circles. Perhaps, just perhaps, Tyson Fury unwittingly ignited the spark that will define Ngannou’s legacy.
ALSO READ: Will Francis Ngannou Become Heavyweight GOAT If He Beats Anthony Joshua On Mar 8?