Since securing boxing legend Mike Tyson as a coaching partner in the lead up to his upcoming fight against WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, former UFC heavyweight champion and renowned MMA fighter Francis “The Nigerian Nightmare” Ngannou has made it abundantly clear that the energy he’s brought to the table during his fight camp has convinced him that he’ll be able to make the British boxer “hit the canvas” during their October fight in Saudi Arabia.
Francis Ngannou via UFC-Ultimate Fighting Championship YouTube
Some could say that the addition of Mike Tyson to his fight camp is only the cherry on top of the sundae that is a rather prosperous year for the Nigerian striker. He parted ways in May with the UFC in order to sign on as a fighter and board member for the PFL, and shortly afterwards announced he’d be making his long-awaited boxing debut with none other that Tyson Fury.
While the money alone from both sets of deals is enough to make anyone extremely happy, the challenges in both his continuing MMA career, business dealings, and this major boxing exhibition has obviously fueled his enthusiasm.
Ngannou and Tyson have not exposed too much of their training except for a few clips posted to social media, but Fury has also commented that no matter who his opponent trains with, it won’t be enough to beat him in October.
Unfazed, Ngannou spoke later with TMZ Sports and shed some light on his progress thus far since beginning his training with Tyson.
“What doesn’t matter is what he’s [Tyson Fury] saying,” said Ngannou. “What matters is what’s going to happen in Saudi, and what’s going to happen is he’ll hit the canvas, I can tell you that.
“I know he’s going to hit the canvas. He’s good at coming back up, we’ll see how good he is, but he’s definitely hitting the canvas.”
Brash words coming from someone about to make their boxing debut against a professional boxer, but confident nonetheless.
It’s an honor to be a part of your journey, my brother @francis_ngannou. Preparation and training to shock the world. #FuryNgannou #RiyadhSeason pic.twitter.com/BeJrr1R8NJ
— Mike Tyson (@MikeTyson) August 22, 2023
After a short retirement, Fury returned to secure victories over Derek Chisora and Dillian Whyte last year.
Although his titles won’t be at stake in the bout with Ngannou, the match is anticipated to rank high in boxing pay-per-view sales. Ngannou, who last defeated Ciryl Gane at UFC 270, could elevate his global reputation with a win over Fury.
Who do you think will have their arm raised victoriously in the ring? Let us know in the comments below and across social media.
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