It’s official. Francis Ngannou and Tyson Fury are set to meet in a huge boxing bout in October, as the former UFC heavyweight champion gets his wish and will take on boxing’s lineal heavyweight champion of the world on October 28 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
A press release from boxing promoters Top Rank officially announced the bout, stating that the matchup will take place “under the official rules of professional boxing, with three judges ringside adopting the 10-point must system.”
The release continued: “Both fighters, however, are promising to meet in the middle of the ring, go to war and win by knockout in devastating fashion.”
Fury’s WBC heavyweight title was not mentioned as part of the announcement.
“I’ve been waiting to meet Tyson in the ring for the past three years,” said Ngannou in a statement.
“My dream was always to box, and to box the best. After becoming the undisputed MMA heavyweight champion, this is my opportunity to make that dream come true and cement my position as the baddest man on the planet.
“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.”
Fury also issued a statement, saying, “As soon as that bell goes, it’ll be bombs away!
“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 to get back out there under the lights. 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. Francis looked tough when he jumped in the ring after the Whyte fight, but there is no one tougher than me, and you’ll all see that in devastating fashion on October 28.
“I’d like to thank my promoters Frank Warren and Bob Arum, my manager Spencer Brown and the guys at Riyadh Season for making this incredible event possible. It’s going to be a fight for the ages. Get up!”