As the boxing world gears up for the highly anticipated match between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk, it’s not just fans and pundits who are keenly observing the action. Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, having made headlines with his prior clash against Fury, is also keeping a close eye, hoping for an outcome that could pave the way for his own redemption in the squared circle. Ngannou’s controversial split decision loss to Fury in October 2023 remains fresh in his mind, and the Cameroonian fighter believes that a rematch could be on the horizon in 2025 if Fury manages to secure a victory against Usyk.
Ngannou’s loss to Fury was marred by controversy, with many observers and fans questioning the judges’ verdict following a bout that saw Ngannou knock Fury down and demonstrate remarkable skill. This loss left a bitter aftertaste for Ngannou, who has had to contend with the fallout of that fight while navigating his career, which now includes stints in both boxing and MMA. After the Fury bout, Ngannou faced another setback with a knockout loss to Anthony Joshua, further complicating his ambitions in the boxing landscape. However, he rebounded impressively with a quick first-round TKO against Renan Ferreira in MMA, reiterating his multifaceted capabilities as a fighter.
Despite the ups and downs, Ngannou remains resolute about his boxing aspirations. In a recent interview, he emphasized that he’s not “coming back” to boxing, as he never truly left the scene. His determination to face Fury again is palpable; he stated, “What I do know for sure is that I want a rematch with Fury.” This sentiment reflects Ngannou’s deep desire to right the perceived wrong from their last encounter, showcasing the mental and emotional weight he carries from that fight.
The outcome of the Fury-Usyk fight is crucial not only for the two heavyweights but also for Ngannou’s future. Should Fury lose, it would potentially clear the way for Ngannou to step back into the ring with him, as the heavyweight landscape shifts and fighters often seek fresh matchups following a defeat. On the other hand, if Fury wins and successfully avenges his earlier loss to Usyk, a trilogy fight may become the next logical step, possibly sidelining Ngannou’s ambitions for an immediate rematch. Nevertheless, the PFL champion remains optimistic, stating, “I think Fury,” while still acknowledging Usyk’s prowess and previous win over the Brit.
For Francis Ngannou, the journey extends far beyond retaliating against a single controversial decision. As he continues to navigate the rough waters of professional boxing and MMA, his determination and resilience shine through. Ngannou’s perspective on Fury and Usyk’s upcoming bout exemplifies the strategic thinking that elite fighters must possess, evaluating potential outcomes not just for himself but for the entire heavyweight division. With ambitions set high, Ngannou stands ready to make his mark, awaiting the opportunity to reclaim his position as a formidable force in the realm of combat sports.