RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Oleksandr Usyk has confirmed that he will be ringside for Tyson Fury’s crossover fight against ex-UFC champion Francis Ngannou on October 28th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Usyk is the current unified heavyweight champion, and he is widely expected to face Fury in an undisputed heavyweight title fight in early 2024. However, Usyk is keen to see how Fury performs against Ngannou, a powerful and dangerous opponent.
“Yes, I’m going there. I would like to see the bout,” said Usyk in media reports. “I’m curious to see how Fury’s fight with the powerful 6’4″ Ngannou will play out.”
Mike Tyson the former boxing heavyweight reigning champion joined Cameroonian Ngannou’s coaching team to help him prepare for the fight . Mike Tyson and Ngannou (17-3-0) are both reputed to be devastating punchers.
“This guy is supposed to be the hardest puncher in the world, but let’s see how he reacts when he gets hit by the Big GK. I can’t wait I’m looking forward to showing the world that The Gypsy King is the greatest fighter of his generation in an epic battle with another master of his craft,” said Tyson Fury (33-0-1 (24 KOs) in media reports.
“All I will say to Tyson for now is he better dance in that ring because if I touch him, he’s going to sleep,” added Ngannou in media reports.
Francis Ngannou already arrived in Saudi Arabia with his coaching team in preparation for the fight. It is Fury’s first fight since his TKO win over Derek Chisora in December 2022.
Usyk has said that he believes Fury will win the fight, but he is giving Ngannou a puncher’s chance.
“Fury is a great boxer, and I think he will win the fight,” Usyk said. “But Ngannou is a dangerous opponent, and he has the power to knock anyone out.”
“Yes, Ngannou is a UFC champion, I’m not disputing it. But UFC isn’t boxing. I’m 100% sure that Tyson Fury will be victorious,” said Usyk in media reports,
The Fury-Ngannou fight is one of the most anticipated fights of the year, and it is sure to be a major event. The presence of Usyk at ringside will only add to the excitement.
(Additional reporting provided by Joseph Hammond)
Edited by Virginia Van Zandt and Newsdesk Manager
