Tyson Fury will face Francis Ngannou later this year in a crossover fight years in the making after snubbing an undisputed title fight with Oleksandr Usyk.
The two world heavyweight champions are the top dogs in boxing and MMA, but Ngannou has never been in the ring as a professional after moving to cage fighting early in his career. Fury has always teased a bout of this nature, but has finally agreed with Usyk facing Daniel Dubois instead.
Ngannou is technically not the UFC heavyweight champion, but he never lost his world title when he left the promotion and is widely considered to be the best in the division. He has been pushing for a showdown with Fury since last year, but was tied to a restrictive deal under the promotional banner until joining the PFL earlier this year.
Here's all you need to know about the upcoming heavyweight showdown
What date is Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou fight?
The world heavyweight champions will compete in an exhibition bout that won't see the Brit's world heavyweight title up for grabs, nor the UFC belt which Ngannou vacated. They will fight on October 28 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia where they will both be paid monster purses.
Ngannou is used to being paid in the mid-six figures during his run in the UFC, and will likely pocket more than his entire career combined for this bout. He and Fury will both be paid something in the eight-figures, despite the fight not officially being for any of the belts.
What time and TV channel is Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou
The event takes place a few hours later than UK time, but broadcasters TNT Box Office (previously BT Sport) will likely insist that it take place later at night local time to benefit British audiences. UFC, Matchroom Boxing and Most Valuable Promotions have all held events in the region that have been pushed to after midnight for the sake of international TV.
It's likely the ring walks will take place some time between 9.30pm and 10.30pm for the main event in the UK, with the undercard starting early in the afternoon.
Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou undercard
There has been no undercard announced as yet, but expect to see both men bring in stars from their respective stables. It wouldn't be surprising to see the likes of Isaac Lowe involved, and there could also be a potential chance for PFL featherweight champion Brendan Loughnane make the crossover given his relationship with both Fury and his new stablemate Ngannou.
Frank Warren will likely get a few of his young guns on there as well, while you can also expect a few local fighters from the region to make it on to the card.
Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou tickets
No details have been released yet as to when tickets go on sale, but that is expected to be announced shortly when more details emerge. The fight was due to be announced over the weekend but was pushed back to allow space for the Usyk vs Dubois press conference in Poland yesterday.
Prices will likely start relatively cheap and build to massive four or five-figure amounts for ringside seats. British fans travelling will also need to prepare accordingly with visas and such and make note of local laws and customs.
Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou odds
Bare in mind that this is something of an exhibition bout, and many bookmakers won't carry odds given the nature of the contest. There may be special markets, but it is often frowned upon to accept bets on fights that are not fully sanctioned, such as Floyd Mayweather's series of unscored fights. However, some bookmakers are offering the following odds:
Tyson Fury 1/5
Francis Ngannou 3/1
Quotes corner
Tyson Fury: “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. I can’t wait to get back out there under the lights. I’m looking forward to showing the world that The Gypsy King is the greatest fighter of his generation in an epic battle with another master of his craft. Francis looked tough when he jumped in the ring after the Whyte fight, but there is no one tougher than me, and you’ll all see that in devastating fashion on October 28. I’d like to thank my promoters Frank Warren and Bob Arum, my manager Spencer Brown, and the guys at Riyadh Season for making this incredible event possible. It’s going to be a fight for the ages. Get up!”
Francis Ngannou: “I’ve been waiting to meet Tyson in the ring for the past three years. My dream was always to box, and to box the best. After becoming the undisputed MMA Heavyweight Champion, this is my opportunity to make that dream come true and cement my position as the baddest man on the planet. I’d like to thank Riyadh Season and my team at 3Point0 Labs for helping put this event together. All I will say to Tyson for now is he better dance in that ring because if I touch him, he’s going to sleep.”
