Is Fury’s Crown Slipping? Hearn Expresses Concerns After Ngannou Fight

Tyson Fury faced a dramatic moment in his heavyweight clash with Francis Ngannou being dropped in the third round before ultimately outpointing the former UFC champion in Saudi Arabia. Eddie Hearn now asserts that Fury has a lot to prove following this narrow escape.

Preparations are underway for Fury’s upcoming bout against Oleksandr Usyk a fight that could determine the first undisputed heavyweight world champion since Lennox Lewis in 1999. Meanwhile, Ngannou is set to face Anthony Joshua on March 8, with the possibility of the winner challenging the victor of Fury’s mega-fight with Usyk. Hearn, who promotes Joshua believes Fury faces lingering questions after his close call with Ngannou.

Reflecting on the past opportunity to face Ngannou, Hearn disclosed, “We had the opportunity to fight Ngannou before, but AJ didn’t want to do it. He said he is a serious guy who wants to win a heavyweight championship. But I thought Ngannou beat Fury, if he didn’t, it was a draw, or he lost by a round, it was that close.”

Noting Ngannou’s knockdown of Fury, Hearn questions whether it was a one-off and emphasizes the importance of the upcoming fight on February 17 in determining Fury’s current status. He speculates on the challenge of entering a bout with unknown strategies, particularly considering Ngannou’s reputation as a powerful puncher.

Meanwhile, Joshua anticipates an explosive encounter with Ngannou, acknowledging the unique mindset and physical attributes of his opponent. Despite the uncertainty, Joshua is focused on the upcoming challenge, stating, “My main focus is Ngannou and getting through an intense training camp. I have got to take his mind and his spirit; it will be explosive. We can both trade and it will be a good fight.”