Tyson Fury claimed a controversial split decision victory over former UFC fighter Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia. This is after Ngannou put Fury on the canvas in round three of the boxing match.
Although Fury’s belt was not on the line, one judge ruled in favor of Ngannou with 95-94. The other gave it to Fury at 96-93 while the last one gave it to Fury at 95-94.
This match marked a professional boxing debut for Ngannou. The 37 year old brought his A game against Fury. His first strike coming in Round Two as a cut opened on the forehead of the heavyweight champion. Eating the hard left hook swing.
Ngannou hit again in round three putting Fury on the canvas. This is after hitting him behind the right ear that caught Fury off guard. This made him struggle to get back into the game till the fifth round when he did strike.
His one two combination came in handy as he struggled to get back into the match. According to him, all hope was not lost. “That definitely wasn’t in the script. I got caught round the back of the head – for the knockdown-, wasn’t hurt and got up and got back to my boxing.”
Making his debut, Ngannou did exemplary well, landing his shots strategically. Fury tried to strike in the seventh but missed and landed on his knees. This was seen more of a slip than a knockout.
After the bell rang, Ngannou’s corner held his arms up high. This was to show that they were expecting to be the winner. Considering the progress of the match since the second round. But the judges had their say and their way. Thus the scorecards controversially fell in the favour of the seasoned boxer, who won the commemorative ‘Riyadh champion’ belt.
It’s a shock on how quick the event turned out when everyone in the boxing fraternity had called it game. It was clear. Ngannou was the best boxer in the match. It’s unfortunate for Ngannou but a huge debut in his professional boxing. Let’s see what the future holds for the 37 year old.