Theatre mirrors reality. In this case, however, it seems that reality is mirroring cinema. The crossover event, Tyson Fury–Francis Ngannou match ended in a split decision in favor of Fury sparking debate among boxing enthusiasts worldwide. Why? The UFC fighter knocked down Fury in the third round and gave a fairly difficult challenge to the heavyweight champion. Not to mention this was Ngannou’s debut fight. Fury won with scores of 96-93 and 95-94, but one judge favored Ngannou with a score of 95-94.

Lennox Lewis, the former undisputed heavyweight champion has kept a note of how the fight went. It reminded him of one of the most popular boxing movies of all time. How did Lewis draw this parallel?

Lennox Lewis lauds Francis Ngannou’s ‘Rocky’ performance

“Rocky” revolves around Rocky Balboa, an underprivileged boxer in Philadelphia, who unexpectedly earns a chance to fight heavyweight champion Apollo Creed. Despite immense challenges, Rocky dedicates himself to rigorous training, finding love in Adrian. Eventually, he confronts Creed in a monumental match, ultimately losing but earning immense respect. Rocky’s defeat is marked by a valiant effort, including knocking down his opponent, endearing him to audiences and instilling self-confidence. Sounds familiar?

“Ngannou’s showing, considering where he’s come from was simply incredible. A real life “Rocky” type of performance.” Said Lewis comparing Ngannou’s climb to that of ‘Rocky’. Both came from humble backgrounds, struggling to make ends meet. From there, they went on to winning the hearts of boxing fans worldwide through a show of skills powerful enough to knock down a professional champion.

Mike Tyson proud of his pupil

Despite the disappointment over the outcome, Tyson praised ‘The Predator’s’ exceptional performance against Fury for ten intense rounds. Ngannou’s impressive knockdown of Fury in the third round showcased his boxing prowess, leaving spectators and even Tyson astonished. Tyson, dismissed rumors of his involvement in Ngannou’s Superman Punch’. He expressed awe at Ngannou’s  versatility as a fighter.

Read More: “I’ll Never Box Again”: Day After Francis Ngannou’s Boxing Debut Loss to Tyson Fury, Ex-UFC Champion Makes Brutal Confession About “Corruption” in Boxing While Reliving Past Boxing Fight

Pundits believe Ngannou was unfairly denied victory, with the match failing to reveal Fury’s best performance. Lewis’s comparison is apt for the debutant. However, with the upcoming Usyk fight, fans are in doubt whether Fury will be able to defend his title after witnessing his performance against Ngannou. What do you think of this?

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