Renowned boxing star Mike Tyson has extended his training expertise to Francis Ngannou in anticipation of his match against Tyson Fury.
Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion, is set to make his boxing debut on October 29 against 'The Gypsy King' in Saudi Arabia. The bout, scheduled for 10 three-minute rounds, will be included in both fighters' professional records. For this crossover fight, Ngannou is set to receive his highest career payday, significantly more than the $600,000 he pocketed for his final UFC title defense.
When ES News inquired about the possibility of Tyson coaching Ngannou for the bout, 'Iron Mike' responded positively, stating, "I would like to do that, yeah. That would be cool. I like that." Despite the significant difference in boxing experience between Ngannou and Fury, Tyson remains optimistic about Ngannou's chances, asserting that "anything is possible" given his powerful punch.
There's uncertainty over whether Ngannou will train for the Fury fight at his MMA gym, Xtreme Couture in Las Vegas, or seek a traditional boxing gym. 'The Predator' has expressed interest in receiving guidance from Tyson and believes that Lennox Lewis, Tyson's former adversary, could also provide valuable insight.
Ngannou told TMZ Sports, "I think getting some advice or training from Mike Tyson would be good... I also think of somebody like Lennox Lewis who could be good." He also expressed admiration for Lewis's boxing style, describing it as "very basic but very sharp and efficient."
Fury's heavyweight title won't be at stake in the match as Ngannou doesn't hold a ranking from the WBC. After splitting with UFC in January to pursue more lucrative opportunities, it initially seemed Ngannou's chances of a major payday were slim, particularly when Fury was tipped to face heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk. However, when the undisputed fight fell through again, Ngannou's risk began to pay off.
Expressing his excitement, Ngannou stated, "This fight couldn't have happened if I didn't decide to take some initiative and decide to take my destiny... I am coming for it all, this is my moment and what I've been waiting for."
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