Tyson Fury and UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou are set to clash in an extraordinary crossover fight on October 28. The fight will be conducted under standard boxing rules, marking a unique showdown between two formidable fighters from different disciplines.
Fury, the current WBC heavyweight champion, will not be defending his title in this bout. The clash will take place in the Middle East, just before Halloween. Ngannou, known for his dominance in the MMA world, relinquished his belt when he departed from the promotion for PFL earlier this year.
Although no titles will be at stake, the fight will be scored by three judges using the 10-point must system. Over ten rounds of three minutes each, the fighters will battle it out in the ring. While it remains uncertain whether the fight will be added to their professional records, the fact that it will be held in a regulation ring and overseen by the commission means it will essentially be considered a professional boxing match.
Fury expressed his excitement for the fight, stating, "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]. I can't wait to get back out there under the lights."
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He also added, "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."
Fury took the opportunity to express his gratitude to his promoters, Frank Warren and Bob Arum, as well as his manager Spencer Brown, and the team at Riyadh Season for making this incredible event possible. He anticipates that the fight will be one for the ages and encourages everyone to get excited.
Ngannou, on the other hand, revealed his anticipation for facing Fury in the ring after three years of waiting. He expressed his lifelong dream of boxing and facing the best in the sport. As the undisputed MMA Heavyweight Champion, this fight presents an opportunity for him to fulfill his dream and solidify his position as the "baddest man on the planet."
Addressing Fury directly, Ngannou warned, "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."
The bout will be co-promoted by Top Rank and Queensberry, who represent Fury, along with Ngannou's new banner GIMIK Fight Promotions. The event will be a collaboration with Saudi Arabian Riyadh Season, resulting in a grand showcase. The fight will serve as the headline event, drawing attention from fans around the world.
This crossover fight between Fury and Ngannou adds to the list of significant boxing events that have brought together fighters from different backgrounds. In 2017, Conor McGregor famously took on Floyd Mayweather, generating massive earnings for both athletes despite the fight being a disappointment and resulting in Mayweather's victory.
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