In a highly controversial fight on Saturday night, WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury managed to maintain his undefeated record against former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou. The bout, which took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, saw Fury survive a knockdown and win by split decision over ten grueling rounds.
Ngannou Shocks with Debut Performance
Making his boxing debut at the age of 37, Ngannou outboxed Fury, 35, for much of the match, even managing to knock down the British champion in Round 3. Despite this, Fury rallied back to secure a narrow victory with scores of 94-95, 96-93, and 95-94, thus avoiding the first loss of his professional career.
"He's a hell of a fighter and a hell of a lot better boxer than we thought he would be," said Fury, showing respect for his opponent. "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 Surrounds Decision
Many boxing experts had labeled Ngannou as an underdog before the fight, but his disciplined and aggressive performance has led many to believe that "The Predator" was wrongfully denied the win. The boxing website Bad Left Hook reported that Fury was not in peak physical condition, noting a lack of stamina in the early rounds.
Echoing these sentiments, Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn insisted that Ngannou won "by two rounds," and criticized Fury's performance, stating that "Tyson Fury looked like he's never laced a pair of gloves before." Hearn called for "The Gypsy King" to offer his opponent a rematch or face Britain's two-time world champion Anthony Joshua. "AJ will knock Tyson Fury out within six rounds. Make the fight; otherwise, we'll never get it," said Hearn.
Stats Reveal Close Contest
Despite the controversy, statistics from Compubox reveal a closely fought contest. Fury (34-0-1, 24 KOs) landed 71 of 223 punches, while Ngannou (0-1) connected with 59 of 231. However, Ngannou did land more power punches throughout the fight, 37 to 32. It was likely Fury's 13 punches to Ngannou's six in the final two rounds that swayed the judges.
Fury vs. Usyk: What's Next?
Following the bout, Oleksandr Usyk entered the ring and confronted Fury, his next scheduled opponent. Both fighters are unbeaten and hold unified heavyweight titles. However, the date for their clash remains uncertain. Fury and his promoter, Frank Warren, were non-committal after the fight with Ngannou, suggesting there may be a need to postpone the title unification against the Ukrainian.
"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."
However, Usyk insisted that the fight with Fury take place on the agreed date of December 23, arguing that negotiations for the fight had lasted for nearly a year. He further stated that Fury should vacate his title if he could not fight on the agreed date, setting the stage for another potential controversy in the heavyweight division.