After Tyson Fury’s heavyweight title defence against Dillion “The Body Snatcher” Whyte, a familiar face entered the ring. UFC Heavyweight king Francis Ngannou stepped onto the canvas to discuss a potential showdown. Both fighters have teased a long-rumoured fight. The clash looks ever closer after last night’s post-fight interviews. Ngannou says, “We’re going to find out who the baddest motherf*cker on the planet is.”
Who Said What?
Mentioning a mixed rules bout, perhaps similar to the recent Demetrius Johnson vs Rodtang at ONE Championship X. Francis mentioned that MMA gloves would be worn. With Tyson alluding to his retirement from boxing, he says he’s open to the idea of an exhibition bout with the MMA star. The Gypsy King stated, “Big Francais Ngannou was here tonight. He’s on my hit list.”
With two fighters whose stocks are at a high point, this fight could be huge for all involved. The only obstacle at the moment would be Ngannou’s UFC contract situation. In an interview after the in-cage interaction, Ngannou stated he’d like the event to take place in Africa. The Cameroon born champ said, “Definitely sometime next year, 2023”. “In Africa, The Rumble in the Jungle 2.” refers to the 1974 boxing clash between Muhammed Ali and George Foreman.
Who Is Who?
Now with a record of 32-0-1. Tyson Fury, 33, has been cementing his legacy as one of the greatest boxers on the planet. After completing a trilogy of fights against Deontay Wilder, where he produced two of the best performances in recent history. Fury’s star has shone brightly. Adding another impressive finish against Whyte when he KO’d “The Body Snatcher” with a perfect uppercut in the sixth to finish the fight. Is it the perfect time for him to step away from the sport? Should he ignore this super fight and once again unify the division?
Francis 35, 17-3, being a prolific knockout artist is what Ngannou is known for. The ever-evolving African champion proved last time out he is more than a one-trick pony. Defeating undefeated (at the time) Cyril Gane by decision with a heavy wrestle approach. Possessing crazy KO power, Ngannou’s hands measured at having the power of being hit by a “Ford Escort going as fast as it can.” Having all but one of his 17 wins coming by way of a finish. A match between these two would be a must-watch. Is Francis right to chase a mixed rules match, or has he got enough contenders to worry about at the top of the UFC rankings?
Will It Happen?
Tyson Fury is one of the most recognised sports stars in the world. Having a mass following earned through his out of ring personality as well as his boxing style. “The Baddest Man On the Planet” is the name Francis Ngannou wants to earn. All MMA fans across the globe know about “The Predator” and his deadly power. As exciting as it seems, is the fight likely?
Francis Ngannou last fought at UFC 270 in January and has been very vocal about his current contract situation. UFC President Dana White has since tried to resolve the issue, but the waters still seem to be muddied. With the situation still up in the air, this could open the door for Francis to take his ball and go play elsewhere. It is also possible Dana might try and co-promote as he did in the Floyd Mayweather vs Conor McGregor fight in 2017. All I can say is this fight is the closest it’s ever been to happening and would be absolutely gigantic for all involved.
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Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images and Embed from Getty Images
