Former UFC champion Francis Ngannou is stepping into a huge risk and challenge as he makes a pro boxing debut by facing the relatively unbeatable, heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, with Mike Tyson aiding in his preparation, according to MMA commentator Dan Hardy.
As per Dan Hardy, the former UFC heavyweight champion, Francis Ngannou is taking an unprecedented risk entering his pro boxing debut. Ngannou is scheduled to face Tyson Fury in a 10-round boxing match in Saudi Arabia on October 28. The match highlights a drastic turn in Ngannou’s career as it is one of his first moves since choosing to vacate the heavyweight championship and not re-sign with the UFC. Reacting to this decision, Ngannou has signed a contract with the PFL (Professional Fighters League) with an assurance to make his promotional debut in early 2024.
Doing extensive broadcast work with PFL, Hardy expressed his views on Ngannou’s upcoming match with the reigning boxing heavyweight champion Tyson Fury. Hardy, with a hint of admiration, stated, “I love him for taking it for taking on such a challenge, but Tyson Fury might be the best heavyweight boxer that’s ever lived.” Hardy praises Fury’s skills, and acknowledges him as an extraordinarily competent and durable heavyweight competitor.
By the time Ngannou steps into the ring to face the unbeaten WBC heavyweight champion Fury, he is predicted to be a massive underdog. Yet, Ngannou will be training with former heavyweight champ Mike Tyson to prepare for Fury. Hardy views Tyson’s involvement as an intriguing addition to Ngannou’s training regimen. The boxing veteran opined, “It’s going to be very interesting to see what Francis can add to his game, especially with Mike Tyson working with him” and anticipates that Tyson’s influence might prompt Ngannou to switch up his attack strategy. Expressing concern about Ngannou’s competition with the master of slipping away and countering with upper cuts, Hardy concluded, “It’s going to be an incredibly tough test for him. You can’t say the man is afraid of taking risks because this is probably the biggest risk he’s taking in boxing right now.”