“You Become A Champion Before You Become A Champion”: Weeks After Joining Hands, Mike Tyson And Francis Ngannou Discuss What It Takes To Be Champion

Francis Ngannou has an opportunity of a lifetime ahead of him. The former UFC heavyweight champion will face Tyson Fury inside the squared circle for the WBC heavyweight title. Various formidable opponents have tried to defeat the undefeated Fury. However, they have always fallen short in their conquest. Moreover, Ngannou presents an unorthodox style. Not to mention, he is a ferocious knockout artist and can sway the outcome of the fight with just one punch.

Ahead of their showdown, ‘The Predator,’ decided to train with none other than Mike Tyson. In a recent episode of, ‘Hotboxin’ with Mike Tyson,‘ the two emphasized the need for self-belief to become a champion.

What makes one a champion? Mike Tyson and Francis Ngannou share their opinion

In the past, Tyson, alongside various other legends stressed the importance of mental fortitude and self-belief. Both Fury and Ngannou made a name for themselves in their respective sports from humble beginnings. Not to mention, they have been counted out in several bouts but they proved their critics wrong. During their conversation, they agreed that a champion does not require just physical capabilities but also mental strength.

During the episode, Ngannou stated, “Most of the time people think the belt makes you a champion. A champion is a mindset.”

To which, Tyson concurred and responded, “You have to become a champion before you become a champion.

Thereafter, the MMA fighter doubled down on his opinion and stated, “Yea you become a champion a long time before. If you are waiting on like a day you’re gonna win title or to be a champion, I think you are doing it wrong.”

It would be hard to deny their opinion on what makes one a champion. Moreover, this has not been the only instance ‘Iron Mike,’ has dwelled on the importance of a robust mentality. Let’s take a look at his past comments.

Mike Tyson is not bothered by his critics due to his belief in himself

Throughout his career, Tyson was shrouded in various controversies and subjected to criticism. However, he never truly let himself be bogged down by the negativity that comes with being as famous as him. And he credits that to his mental fortitude.

In an interview, Tyson stated, “It doesn’t faze me what anyone says about me. It doesn’t matter what anyone says about me. I’m a totally different entity than what people think.”

Read more: “Gives Me a Little Hope”: Fans in Philosophical Haze as Francis Ngannou Talks About Championship Mindset With Mike Tyson