The crossover genre in boxing is here to stay. An enormous surge in its popularity has been observed, especially during the last few years. However, the Heavyweight division has been impervious to its influence to a large extent. But soon, it’s going to change. On October 28, the world may see one of the most significant crossover combat matches ever. Former UFC Heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou takes on reigning WBC champion Tyson Fury.

A formidable challenge awaits ‘The Predator.’ To become a better boxer and withstand the Heavyweight boxing champion’s punishing onslaught, he has roped in Mike Tyson to train him. Sitting with Joe Rogan, ‘The Predator’ shared his experience learning the ropes from a fighter who, in the past, fought the way he used to in the octagon.

Francis Ngannou discussed the impact of Mike on his training

Nearing the show’s end, Rogan asked Ngannou to explain how Tyson had contributed to his training. He seemed curious about the specifics of the former Heavyweight champion’s advice, the tactics he shared, and how he influenced the Cameroonian-French fighter’s thinking. What would be his strategy when he faces Tyson Fury, for instance?

Francis Ngannou replied, “I mean, asking that question makes me feel like you don’t really understand. Like I grew up idolizing Tyson…Mike Tyson, right….and then I say…having a dream to become a world-class boxer. My first boxing match…Mike Tyson in the gym, like, oh no, this that …. I’am like, come on in a moment. Like, this is real. This is how this way I get it, so it’s real.”

Then he continued how, even when he starts thinking in that direction, from time to time, he finds himself wondering whether it’s Mike Tyson with him. Then, reality dawns that he is indeed in serious business, and to support him, he has the youngest Heavyweight boxing champion, who believes that Ngannou has a good shot of beating Tyson Fury. ‘The Predator’ finally added, “So he put his faith on you, a guy that [has] done everything in boxing that. He’s there; I’am like… he sees me as somebody that can do this.”

Despite a fearsome reputation for knocking down opponents with devastating blows, Francis Ngannou’s exposure to the nitty-gritty of professional boxing remains minimal. A hands-down underdog, like any intelligent fighter, he decided to amplify his skills to suit the squared circle.

The guru forebodes

The world finally learned a few months ago that Mike Tyson had joined Francis Ngannou’s camp. Clips of the former boxing champion training his charge in the ring have been going viral. During Ngannou’s media day, the media interacted with the duo.

Read More: “So Incredibly Disrespectful”: Tyson Fury’s Bold Statement About Mike Tyson Training Francis Ngannou Leaves Combat World Divided

Tyson, on his part, shared his faith that the former UFC Heavyweight champion has what it takes to hold up the juggernaut that is Fury. For sure, many fans are eagerly looking forward to such an upset on Saturday, October 28.

Do you think his mixed martial arts background would be helpful when Francis Ngannou takes on Tyson Fury on October 28? Please share your thoughts and views with us in the comments below.

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