When Francis Ngannou parted ways with the UFC, there were a lot of questions about how the Cameroonian would go forward with his career. UFC president Dana White time and time again criticized the ‘Predator’ for passing off one of the greatest deals in the history of the promotion.
However, all speculations were put to rest after the Francis Ngannou vs Tyson Fury fight got announced recently. Not only did the former UFC heavyweight champ manage to land arguably one of the biggest money fights in boxing, but we may also actually see another legendary figure of the sport train him in preparation for the ‘battle of the ages’.
Mike Tyson interested to train Francis Ngannou after his request
Francis Ngannou is gearing up to enter a new chapter in his professional career, and he has found his next opponent in none other than the WBC heavyweight champion.
Despite the widespread belief that this matchup presents a colossal challenge for the former UFC heavyweight champion, Ngannou exudes unwavering confidence in his abilities.
WATCH: When @MikeTyson Showed @francis_ngannou How To Beat @Tyson_Fury
Francis Ngannou met his idol Mike Tyson in the year 2019, who agreed to coach him and provide him with some tactics on how to defeat the gypsy king@MikeTyson says that Fury throws long punches. Therefore,… pic.twitter.com/5NLF0cxNL0
— The Last Round (@thelastround12) July 12, 2023
During a recent interview with TMZ Sports, the Cameroonian-French fighter mentioned that seeking advice or training from Mike Tyson would be a valuable addition to his preparation for his debut boxing bout.
“I think getting some advice or some training from Mike Tyson would be good. I also think of somebody like Lennox Lewis who could be good. Yes, one of those guys. We are definitely reaching out.” Francis said.
In a recent interview, Mike Tyson conveyed his optimism about providing support to the MMA veteran. Iron Mike also expressed his willingness to share his boxing wisdom with the former UFC heavyweight champion to aid him in his upcoming bout.
“I think anything is possible. He has a hard punch, I would like to do that, yeah. That would be cool. I like that,” Mike said.
Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou will fight on Oct. 28 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, per Mike Coppinger/ESPN 🤯 pic.twitter.com/u9vEjdBr9C
— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) July 11, 2023
Mike Tyson once advised UFC champ Francis Ngannou on fighting Tyson Fury
When Francis departed from the UFC, he initially set his sights on trying his hand at boxing. After spending six months as a free agent, he actively sought an opportunity to sign with a notable heavyweight boxer. While there were discussions with Deontay Wilder, his ultimate priority had always been to face Tyson Fury.
Many MMA and boxing experts perceived Ngannou’s ambition as audacious, transitioning from MMA to taking on someone of Fury’s caliber in his boxing debut was not deemed logical. However, from the beginning, Mike Tyson found the idea of this matchup intriguing, expressing his belief that Francis could take on the British heavyweight and even emerge victorious.
Mike Tyson gave UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou tips on how to fight Tyson Fury…
[📽️ @MikeTyson & @Francis_Ngannou] pic.twitter.com/y8APFRVobB
— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) January 22, 2022
As an ardent supporter of Ngannou, it makes sense for him to seek insights and advice from the OG Tyson himself to gain an edge and increase his chances of defeating the other Tyson in the ring.
What is your take on this highly-anticipated boxing battle? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section.
