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The world of combat sports is eclectic as the former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou is all set to face the reigning heavyweight boxing king Tyson Fury. Adding to the intrigue is Ngannou’s secret weapon in training, Mike Tyson. This colossal showdown is all set for October 28th in Saudi Arabia’s grand Riyadh season.

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While in a conversation with Flex Lewis on ‘Straight Outta The Lair’, Ngannou’s coach revealed exclusive details about what’s going on in Ngannou’s camp. And, Mike Tyson may just very well be standing at The Predator’s corner.

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Francis Ngannou is training hard with Mike Tyson by his side

Eric Nicksick, head coach of Xtreme Couture, while in conversation with Lewis indulged in a few details on Francis Ngannou’s training for his debut as a boxer against none other than Tyson Fury. On being asked by Lewis what the fight is looking like, Nicksick was quick to state “ You know, he’s been doing great. He’s, let’s see, so I’d say like mid-July, we already kind of started pre-camp. He was getting him, you know, basically getting his cardio down, getting his work in. Shout out to Dewey Cooper, man. This guy has been putting in so much goddamn work, you know? He’s just, this poor guy, so I swear I feel like I work harder than sometimes. I look at Dewey, and I’m like, “Holy f**k, this dude is everywhere, working hard,” you know? “

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Nicksick further delved into the topic and added that when Ngannou wanted to get a boxing coach on board, Mike Tyson was brought in. However, he also clarified that despite working with them, his presence in the corner during the fight is something he is unsure of. Nicksick also revealed that The Predator has brought in another coach from France to assist with his preparations.

He states, “And we did bring on Mike Tyson. Mike Tyson came out and did some stuff with us. Now, I still don’t know if Mike’s gonna be in the corner. I don’t know if any of that. I don’t know. But, you know what a cool experience that was in itself.  you know, he[Francis Ngannou] has another coach that he brought out from France. So he’s been there for a little bit now.”

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Eric Nicksick’s inspirational message to Ngannou

Eric Nicksick went further into the conversation and praised Francis Ngannou’s tenacity to be the best. As his coach, he hopes to continue encouraging Ngannou to dream big and pursue greatness, especially in the face of adversity.  Nicksick stated “You know, I’ve been at all the sparring sessions and watching him grow and watching him work. And man, I’ll tell you what, it’s, it’s, of course, it’s a tall task, man. This is one of the best heavyweights to ever do it, Tyson Fury. But what I will say, man, is dream big, man. this dude had this in his heart for the day it started like this is always something he wanted to do

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Read more: Tyson Fury Shocks The World With A Luxury ‘Gypsy King’ Logo On His Driveway

In a motivational chat, Eric Nickman urges Ngannou to dream big even if it means taking risks. He stresses the importance of having a supportive circle of believers to overcome self-doubt. Francis, ingrained with unwavering self-assurance by his cadre, possesses an imposing capacity for decisive knockouts that Nickman likens to the prowess exhibited by Sean Strickland. This only reinforces the crucial role of self-assurance in the champions’ careers.

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What are your thoughts on the ‘battle of the baddest’? Will Francis Ngannou emerge victorious in his debut or will Tyson Fury devastate Ngannou? Do tell us in the comments below.

Watch this story: Conor McGregor Transformation: Here’s How the UFC Star Looks Like Now

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Suryakant Das

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Suryakant Das is a senior writer who leads UFC live coverage at EssentiallySports, known for his broad expertise and standout professionalism in MMA journalism. Over two years in the field, he has become a key voice on real-time event updates, pre- and post-fight interviews, and analysis of viral moments from the Joe Rogan Experience. His dynamic reporting is backed by selection to the Journalistic Excellence Program, which hones advanced editorial skills and strategic coverage approaches for top talent. Suryakant’s career is defined by his ability to deliver both speed and depth. His versatile background spans sports journalism, content writing, and editorial roles, helping him navigate fast-paced live coverage and deliver meaningful stories with clarity and precision. Recognition from respected MMA figures such as Nina-Marie Daniele and Hall of Famer Michael Bisping further marks him as a trusted authority in the UFC community.

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Joyita Das

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