In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on October 28th, two heavyweight champions from different combat sports will make history. Tyson Fury, the reigning lineal heavyweight boxing champion, and Francis Ngannou, the linear MMA heavyweight champion, are set to face off in a sanctioned boxing match.
After a contract dispute, Ngannou vacated his heavyweight title in the UFC and became a free agent earlier this year. In March, Jon Jones won the vacant heavyweight belt, and he is scheduled to defend it in November at UFC 295.
Ngannou recently signed a groundbreaking deal with the PFL, granting him the opportunity to participate in high-profile boxing matches while maintaining his MMA career. This move opened the door for his dream fight against Fury, although it seemed unlikely at first.
The clash between Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou to determine the true “Baddest Man on the Planet” will follow the official rules of professional boxing. Three judges ringside will adopt the 10-point must system. Both fighters have promised to meet in the middle of the ring, engage in an all-out war, and aim for a devastating knockout victory.
A partnership has been formed between Queensberry, Top Rank, Ngannou’s promotional banner GIMIK Fight Promotions, and Riyadh Season to host this historic event that will captivate fight fans worldwide.
In the capital of the Kingdom, the world will witness the showdown between “The Gypsy King” and “The Predator” to establish the undisputed Heavyweight King.
This fight will put the toughest chin in boxing against the Most Powerful Punch, as recognized by the Guinness World Records. It is a matchup where no quarter will be given.
Taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s largest city, this mega-fight, one of the most lucrative in history, will be held in a regulation boxing ring under standard boxing rules. Both Ngannou and Fury are expected to benefit financially from this momentous event, with Ngannou projecting to earn more than in his 17 UFC fights.
Tyson Fury confidently stated, “As soon as that bell rings, it’ll be bombs away! This guy is known as the hardest puncher in the world, but let’s see how he reacts when he’s hit by the Big GK. I can’t wait to step back into the spotlight and show the world that The Gypsy King is the greatest fighter of his generation, in an epic battle against another master of his craft. Francis seemed tough when he entered the ring after the Whyte fight, but no one is tougher than me, and you’ll all witness that in devastating fashion on October 28th. I’d like to express my gratitude to my promoters Frank Warren and Bob Arum, my manager Spencer Brown, and the team at Riyadh Season for making this incredible event possible. It’s going to be a fight for the ages. Get ready!”
Displaying his confidence, Francis Ngannou added, “I’ve been waiting for three years to meet Tyson in the ring. My dream has always been to box and face the best. After becoming the undisputed MMA Heavyweight Champion, this is my chance to make that dream come true and solidify my position as the baddest man on the planet. I’d like to thank Riyadh Season and my team at 3Point0 Labs for their support in organizing this event. For now, all I will say to Tyson is that he better dance in that ring because if I touch him, he’s going to sleep.”