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- Undefeated heavyweight champion set to take on MMA star on Oct. 28 in Saudi Arabia
RIYADH: Undefeated WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury says he “can’t wait to get under the lights” here for his bout with Francis Ngannou on Oct. 28.
The clash will take place under the official rules of professional boxing, in a regulation ring, with three judges adopting the 10-point system. Both fighters are promising to win by knockout.
An agreement has been reached with Queensberry, Top Rank and Ngannou’s promotional banner, GIMIK Fight Promotions, to partner with Riyadh Season to host the history-making event.
Up for grabs is the title of “Baddest Man on the Planet” in the capital of the Kingdom, when “The Gypsy King” goes up against “The Predator.”
The fight will see the toughest chin in boxing tested by the Most Powerful Punch in the world, as confirmed by the Guinness World Records with regard to Ngannou’s ability.
“As soon as that bell goes, it’ll be bombs away,” Fury reportedly said recently. “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 (Dillian) Whyte fight, but there is no one tougher than me, and you’ll all see that in devastating fashion on Oct. 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.”
Ngannou reportedly said recently: “I’ve been waiting to meet Tyson in the ring for the past three years. 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. I’d like to thank Riyadh Season and my team at 3Point0 Labs for helping put this event together. 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.”
Turki Al-Asheikh, chairman of the General Entertainment Authority and head of Riyadh Season, said: “Riyadh Season 2023 is back for its fourth edition of world class experiences and live events — keeping its claim as one of the most anticipated entertainment seasons worldwide. Following its opening ceremony, Riyadh Season 2023 will kick off with an electrifying boxing match on Oct. 28, 2023. MMA and boxing audiences will witness the ultimate clash between two champions, Tyson Fury against Francis Ngannou. This faceoff will set a new standard for such an event.”
Promoter and Queensberry Chairman Frank Warren said recently the heavyweight clash has “war” written all over it.
“Tyson Fury is the most exciting heavyweight on the planet. It is a game changer; we didn’t want to wait for Tyson to get out and here we are at Riyadh Season in a super fight. Tyson is at his best when he is breaking new boundaries and this event is one of a kind. History will be made in Riyadh with a battle of the giants from the two leading codes of combat fighting.
“Tyson is the true King of the Ring and Francis Ngannou will present an intriguing challenge as he has the much publicized Most Powerful Punch in the world, this guy has a sledgehammer in each hand. Can Tyson avoid the sledgehammer all fight? What happens if it lands? It will be a truly spectacular event and Riyadh Season will provide a stage fit for two champions in one boxing ring.”