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UFC’s biggest stars can’t resist chattering about the eyebrow-raising boxing match between Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou. It’s not even been a fortnight since this clash has been announced, and numerous MMA pundits have already picked their sides.
One of the most influential names to talk about this fight was Khabib Nurmagomedov. The undefeated UFC champion sided with Fury in his recent statement. Now, his long-time coach Javier Mendez has also given his opinions about Ngannou vs Fury.
Javier Mendez predicts a rude awakening for Francis Ngannou
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While acknowledging the possibility of an early knockout, Mendez found it hard to envision Ngannou defeating the seasoned Fury. Moreover, Mendez praised Fury as one of the greatest fighters. Further, the coach highlighted Fury’s elusive defensive skills, making him difficult to hit, and emphasized his considerable reach advantage.
“I think Tyson is such a great fighter, one of the greatest. He is so hard to hit, that I don’t see Ngannou realistically being able to do very much because of the experience Tyson has. He is also not a small guy, a very tall guy”, Mendez said.
Read More – “Doesn’t It Seem Strange”: Oleksandr Usyk Spills the Beans on Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou
Despite acknowledging Ngannou’s best efforts, Mendez ultimately did not foresee him being able to overcome Fury’s experience and skills in the boxing ring. “He has got a great range of motion. I see Ngannou giving it his best, but I don’t see it happening”, he added.
What did Khabib Nurmagomedov say about Ngannou vs. Fury?
In a candid interview with Boxing Scene, Khabib Nurmagomedov heaped praise upon Tyson Fury, hailing him as the best. According to Nurmagomedov’s assessment, Fury stands head and shoulders above his boxing peers, showcasing skills that appear untouchable.
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ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES SEPTEMBER 7, 2019: UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov at a news conference after defending his title in a bout against interim UFC lightweight champion Dustin Poirier at the UFC 242 mixed martial arts tournament. Valery Sharifulin/TASS (Photo by Valery SharifulinTASS via Getty Images)
“Tyson Fury, this guy is the best right now. I think Tyson Fury is on a different level in boxing,” he said.
With a touch of realism, Nurmagomedov acknowledged that perhaps Oleksandr Usyk could be the most formidable challenger for Fury. “In boxing, I don’t see anyone that can touch his face, maybe Usyk. Usyk is going to be the toughest challenge for Tyson Fury”, he said.
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From his words, it is clear that ‘The Eagle’ is putting his money on Fury. Who are you supporting? Comment your opinions down below.
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