In a controversial bout that has the boxing world buzzing, WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury narrowly defeated former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou by split decision over ten grueling rounds. The fight took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where 37-year-old Ngannou made his boxing debut against the 35-year-old British champion.
Ngannou Shocks Fury with Early Knockdown
Despite being considered an underdog by many boxing experts, Ngannou showcased impressive discipline and aggression, outboxing Fury for much of the fight. The Cameroonian-French fighter stunned spectators with a knockdown in the third round. However, Fury managed to rally, ultimately winning by slim margins (94-95, 96-93, 95-94) and keeping his professional record free of losses.
"He's a hell of a fighter and a better boxer than we thought he would be," said Fury after the fight. "He was very awkward. He wasn't coming forward and was waiting for me to throw. He's given me one of my toughest fights of the last ten years."
A Controversial Decision
The decision has sparked debate among fans and experts alike. Many believe that "The Predator" was wrongfully denied the win. Boxing website Bad Left Hook reported that Fury appeared not to be in peak physical condition, with his stamina notably lacking in the early rounds.
Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn echoed this sentiment, maintaining that Ngannou won "by two rounds" and that "Tyson Fury looked like he's never laced a pair of gloves before." On Matchroom Boxing's YouTube channel, Hearn called for "The Gypsy King" to offer his opponent a rematch or face Britain's two-time world champion Anthony Joshua.
Stats Reveal a Close Fight
Although Ngannou landed more power punches, the latest stats reveal that Fury landed more total punches in the contest. According to Compubox, Fury (34-0-1, 24 KOs) landed 71 of 223 punches, while Ngannou (0-1) connected with 59 of 231. Fury was also the more active fighter in six of the ten rounds, with Ngannou edging three and one round tied.
In the final two rounds, Ngannou landed only six punches, while Fury landed 13 - a factor that likely influenced the judges' decision. However, Ngannou outdid Fury in power punches throughout the fight, landing 37 to Fury's 32.
Upcoming Bout: Fury vs. Usyk
Following the bout, Oleksandr Usyk entered the ring and confronted Fury, setting the stage for their upcoming clash. Both fighters are unbeaten and hold unified heavyweight titles. The rumored date for their bout in Riyadh on December 23 remains uncertain, as Fury and his promoter, Frank Warren, were non-committal after Fury's fight with Ngannou.
The Queensberry promoter explained that Fury cannot immediately enter a camp after such a tough fight, needing "at least a bit of time to get himself, his body, back into shape." He predicted the Briton would return to camp early next year. However, Usyk insisted that the fight should take place on the agreed date of December 23, arguing that Fury should vacate his title if he cannot fight on the agreed date.