Tyson Fury beats Francis Ngannou

Tyson Fury narrowly won a 10-round non-title bout against Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia, but the decision was disputed and not unanimous among the judges.

Even though Tyson Fury was knocked down in the third round, he secured the victory with scores of 96-93 and 95-94 on two judges’ cards.

The remaining judge awarded a score of 95-94 in favor of Francis Ngannou.

Fury is the top heavyweight boxer and holds the WBC title. He has never lost a pro fight.

On the other hand, Ngannou had his first pro boxing match in this 10-round bout.

Fury’s title couldn’t be at stake because Ngannou had no boxing experience. But, surprisingly, Ngannou came very close to winning. He knocked Fury down with a powerful left hook in the third round and did well in many other rounds. However, Fury still managed to win by a close and disputed split decision.

Fury had to acknowledge: “That definitely wasn’t in the script. He’s given me probably one of my toughest fights in the last 10 years.”

“Francis is a hell of a fighter, strong, big puncher, and a lot better boxer than we all thought he would be. He’s a very awkward man and he’s a good puncher and I respect him a lot.”

Ngannou could hardly have been blamed if he had condemned that judging.

But he did not complain, merely reflecting: “It didn’t go my way. I might have come up short today. I’ll come back.”

Ngannou almost caused a huge surprise in the heavyweight division and the sport of boxing. But it didn’t start that way. When the fight began, Fury went to the center of the ring to meet him.