- Tyson Fury warns Francis Ngannou not to use MMA moves in their boxing match.
- The fight will strictly follow traditional boxing rules, and any rule-breaking could lead to disqualification.
- Ngannou is confident and considers his entry into the boxing world a success.
Tyson Fury has delivered a stern ultimatum to Francis Ngannou, cautioning the former UFC heavyweight champion against resorting to any mixed martial arts (MMA) tactics during their upcoming boxing clash. The stage is set for an epic showdown this Saturday, marking Ngannou’s crossover from the octagon to the boxing ring.
Fury, known for his charismatic demeanor and fearless boxing style, not only expressed confidence in his ability to prevail against Ngannou in an MMA fight but has also hinted at the prospect of a cage fight rematch between the two, though he’s flip-flopped on this notion in recent discussions.
In a landscape increasingly defined by crossover events, featuring notable figures such as UFC icon Nate Diaz and Bellator MMA star Dillon Danis trying to incorporate their grappling skills in unconventional arenas, Fury remains steadfast in his commitment to maintaining the integrity of their boxing bout. Underlining the significance of their fight under traditional Queensbury rules, Fury has issued a clear directive to Ngannou – any deviation from pure boxing will result in disqualification.
“This is a boxing fight and it’s actually a proper boxing, sanctioned fight. If he starts doing anything stupid, he’ll get chucked out and disqualified. Game over. This is not a wrestling match, an MMA fight, or a street fight. This is Queensbury rules. The greatest sport in history,” Fury declared to MMA Junkie.
Fury’s unwavering confidence in his boxing prowess is palpable. “This is big-time boxing, so welcome to big-time boxing. Am I a heavy favorite? Two giant men swinging at each other, and whoever lands first will go down? It’s very difficult to hit me, even if you’ve got a handful of rice. He’s either gonna sink or swim, and either way, I’m knocking him out.“
While Fury exudes confidence, the boxing purists have cast doubt on Ngannou’s prospects as he aims to hand Fury his first professional loss. For Ngannou, this bout represents a transformative moment, having parted ways with the UFC earlier in the year amid a contentious contract dispute in pursuit of a substantial boxing payday.
Ngannou, however, exudes an air of respect for his formidable opponent, acknowledging that Fury’s willingness to take the fight speaks volumes about his standing in the ring. “There is definitely a good respect; otherwise, he wouldn’t have taken the fight,” Ngannou asserted. “In order for him to take a fight against somebody who is fighting for the first time, he respects them as an opponent and knows they are legit. This is already a success and a win; I’ve won already, and on Saturday night, I’m going out there to get a second win.”
