Tyson Fury’s US promoter Bob Arum has given his verdict on the recent fight with Francis Ngannou.
The former UFC Champion was given little to no chance to beat Fury, but a knockdown in round three and some competitive action thereafter have many feeling that he did enough to do just that.
He would lost a split decision on the scorecards, Fury leaving the ring with the victory but some damaged pride. Speaking to KO Artist Sports, Arum spoke of his shock during the third round.
“I was stunned. But I said to everyone that Ngannou had a puncher’s chance. He’s a tremendously hard puncher, and he can put heavyweights down on the ground. I don’t think Tyson was prepared for that tough a fight. I thought he clearly won the fight, but Ngannou gave a good account of himself.”
He didn’t entirely dismiss the idea that Fury’s best days may be behind him, but said that he didn’t think it was likely.
“That always can be the case. I don’t believe it’s that case that his best days are behind him.”
Finally, Arum would like to see Ngannou in with another top heavyweight before ranking him.
“We gotta see Ngannou against a top heavyweight who is really prepared for him before we can find how good he is. But it looks to me that with experience and training, Ngannou belongs at the top level.”
With the victory, Fury moves ahead to an undisputed bout with Oleksandr Usyk – one Arum says he will be better prepared for.
“I really believe that when he fights Usyk he has a bod of work to study and know how to approach him. With Ngannou he was dealing with a blank slate. He’ll be better prepared, but Usyk is a terrific fighter and it’s not an easy out. I think it will be a very competitive fight.”
The four-belt clash, set for Saudi Arabia, is reportedly landing on February 17.