In a high-stakes boxing match that has stirred controversy and debate in the world of combat sports, WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury managed to preserve his unbeaten record. He outlasted former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in a split decision over ten grueling rounds. The bout took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and marked Ngannou's debut in professional boxing.
A Knockdown and a Comeback
Ngannou, 37, proved himself a worthy adversary for Fury, 35, outboxing the British champion for much of their clash. In an unexpected turn of events, Ngannou floored Fury with a knockdown in Round 3. However, displaying the heart of a true champion, Fury rallied back to win by narrow margins (94-95, 96-93, 95-94), thus avoiding the first loss of his illustrious career.
"He's a hell of a fighter and a lot better boxer than we thought he would be. He's an awkward man and a good puncher, and I respect him a lot," said Fury in his post-fight interview. "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."
Controversy and Criticism
Despite Fury's victory, many boxing experts have voiced their disagreement with the result. They dubbed Ngannou, also known as "The Predator", an underdog who fought with discipline and aggression but was wrongfully denied the win. Meanwhile, reports from boxing website Bad Left Hook suggested that Fury was not in peak physical condition, with his stamina notably lacking in the early rounds.
Echoing this sentiment, Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn maintained that Ngannou had won "by two rounds". Hearn criticized Fury's performance, saying, "Tyson Fury looked like he's never laced a pair of gloves before." He further called for "The Gypsy King" to offer his opponent a rematch or face Britain's two-time world champion Anthony Joshua.
By the Numbers: Fury Prevails
The latest stats have revealed that while Ngannou landed more power punches, Fury connected with more total punches during 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 ten rounds, with Ngannou edging three and one round tied.
Ngannou managed only six successful punches in the final two rounds, while Fury landed 13, a factor likely influential in the judges' decision. However, Ngannou did outscore Fury in terms of power punches throughout the fight, landing 37 to Fury's 32.
Fury vs. Usyk: Uncertain Future
After the bout, Oleksandr Usyk, Fury's next scheduled opponent, entered the ring and confronted him. Both fighters are unbeaten and hold unified heavyweight titles. The rumored date for their clash in Riyadh on December 23 remains uncertain as Fury and his promoter, Frank Warren, were non-committal after Fury's fight with Ngannou.
"I don't think the date will be announced just yet. This fight is on. Both fighters want it. Tyson's got a cut there. We'll see how it heals," said Warren. The Queensberry promoter explained that Fury cannot go into a camp after such a tough fight, as he needs "at least a bit of time to get himself, his body, back into shape."
Usyk, however, insisted that the fight with Fury take place on the agreed date of December 23. The Ukrainian argued that if Fury could not meet this obligation, he should vacate his title. As the dust settles from Fury's controversial victory over Ngannou, the boxing world now eagerly awaits the resolution of this new dispute.