Francis Ngannou made his professional boxing debut last year, guided into the sport by Mike Tyson.
‘The Baddest Man on the Planet’ was a part of Ngannou’s training regime for his ten-round contest with Tyson Fury – one in which he scored a knockdown against the world champion before losing on a split-decision.
Despite defeat, his performance landed him another mega fight, this time against Anthony Joshua.
Speaking to TalkSPORT, trainer Dewey Cooper, who has made the switch with Ngannou from MMA to boxing, said Tyson’s involvement in the Fury camp helped the fighter’s motivation immeasurably.
“He made an agreement with Mike Tyson that if he did a boxing fight Mike would have to work his corner because Mike Tyson was so influential in Francis wanting to take this journey.
“Mike had to be a part of it. He trained Francis when he could. He had a very busy schedule. He and I are good friends, so whenever he came in, he took over. It’s Mike Tyson!
I think the main factor he played, besides the great training and instructions, was the motivation of Francis. When Mike Tyson came to the gym, Francis lit up like a kid on Christmas morning about to open his gifts.”
He then said he expects ‘Iron Mike’ to be involved in this camp for ‘AJ’ to some extent.
“Whatever way Francis wants Mike Tyson to be involved he will be. I love Mike, we go back way before any of this Francis Ngannou–UFC stuff was happening anyway.
“So, I hope he will come through like he did last time and keep implementing his mentality and technique. I’m sure he will, but either way, [Ngannou] is going to be prepared and ready to go against Anthony Joshua.”
Joshua and Ngannou face off on March 8 in Riyadh, with the winner positioned to face the undisputed champion crowned on February 17 – Tyson Fury or Oleksandr Usyk.