Boxing is back in the headlines this week as the fight game prepares for another exciting show. World heavyweight champion Tyson Fury travels to Saudi Arabia to face UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in the latest boxing/MMA crossover bout. All eyes will be on Riyadh on Saturday, 28th October, but will those in attendance and the millions watching worldwide see Fury add another win to his already impressive unbeaten record?
The Gypsy King is the pre-fight favorite at the best California betting sites, and that’s hardly surprising given he faces an MMA fighter in the boxing ring under professional boxing rules. Tyson holds all the aces for this contest, but Francis carries power, and his background in combat sports means he’s far more experienced than your average debutant. The Nigerian powerhouse has promised to silence his opponent and score an impressive knockout win. You can expect to see Ngannou back in the ring if he does.
Fury hopes to finish the assignment style and return to his day job, trying to unite the world heavyweight championship. Win, lose, or draw, Fury will face fellow boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk in his next fight, which may happen before the end of 2023 or early next year. A Fury vs. Usyk unification, although yet to be confirmed, would give boxing lovers something they’ve not had for years: one true champion. Will that be the Englishman or the Ukrainian?
Tyson tackles his namesake
Tyson Fury, an Englishman from the traveling community, recently appeared in a Netflix documentary with his wife, Paris, father, John Fury, and children. Tyson takes his name from his father’s favorite fighter in the 1980s, the baddest man on the planet, Mike Tyson. And that’s where things get complicated and awkward ahead of the Fury vs Ngannou tussle.
If a world heavyweight boxing champion fighting a world heavyweight MMA champion isn’t weird enough, Mike Tyson trains the African. Fury plans to defeat an opponent trained and coached by his sporting idol, Iron Mike, but the Englishman told fans and reporters he isn’t emotionally involved. Fury and Tyson reckon it’s just business and won’t wreck the pair’s blossoming friendship.
That’s easy to say, as Fury is the favorite to win, but if Mike trains Francis to victory, things could turn sour in Saudi Arabia. Victory for the wrestler written off by all respected pundits would come against all the odds, but professional boxing rarely follows a script, and fights can turn in the blink of an eye. It’s one of the reasons why boxing is popular worldwide.
Words of wisdom
Tyson Fury and Mike Tyson have given the world some memorable and useful quotes on sport and life. Professional boxers like Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, and Floyd Mayweather have had plenty to say over the years, but what’s your favorite quote delivered by a fighter?
Let’s look at some quotes from boxers that stuck in our heads, and we thought were worth sharing. Fighters endure the toughest sport, and those who make it to the highest level have a story to tell and wisdom to share with the community. See for yourself in the following quotes and tell us your pick of the bunch.
Muhammad Ali
“Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee.”
Muhammad Ali, often regarded as the greatest boxer of all time, was known for his quick reflexes and unparalleled agility inside the ring. His famous quote encapsulates the essence of his boxing style, highlighting the importance of swift movement and decisive strikes. Beyond the ring, these words symbolize the need for grace and finesse in navigating life’s challenges.
Mike Tyson
“Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.”
His power and intimidating presence characterized Mike Tyson’s dominance in the ring. This quote, which has become synonymous with the unpredictability of life, serves as a stark reminder that no matter how well-prepared one may be, unforeseen circumstances can alter the course of any plan. It underscores the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity.
Joe Frazier
“You can map out a fight plan or a life plan, but when the action starts, it may not go as planned, and you’re down to your reflexes – that means your [preparation:] training. That’s where your roadwork shows. If you cheated on that in the dark of the morning, you’ll get found out now, under the bright lights.”
Joe Frazier’s quote epitomizes the significance of rigorous preparation and dedication. It underscores the idea that meticulous planning is futile without the requisite groundwork. Just as in boxing, in life, one’s commitment and discipline during the preparation process ultimately determine the battle’s outcome.
Sugar Ray Robinson
“To be a champ, you must believe in yourself when nobody else will.”
Sugar Ray Robinson, known for his unmatched skill and determination, highlights the essence of self-belief in achieving greatness. This quote is a testament to the resilience required to pursue one’s ambitions despite external skepticism or doubt. It echoes the importance of unwavering confidence in one’s abilities as a cornerstone for achieving extraordinary feats.
Floyd Mayweather Jr.
“I don’t fold under pressure; great athletes perform better under pressure, so put pressure on me.”
Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s quote reflects his unyielding confidence and composure even in the face of intense pressure. It encapsulates the mindset of a true champion who thrives in challenging situations, viewing pressure as an opportunity to showcase their skills and resilience. It serves as a reminder that adversity can drive personal growth and excellence.
George Foreman
“The question isn’t at what age I want to retire; it’s at what income.”
George Foreman’s famous quote embodies the spirit of perseverance and the relentless pursuit of success. It underscores the significance of striving for financial security and stability as a fundamental aspect of long-term planning. Beyond boxing, this quote emphasizes the importance of setting ambitious goals and actively working toward financial independence and security.
Manny Pacquiao
“You cannot be successful without failure. You have to experience both to achieve success.”
Manny Pacquiao’s quote emphasizes the vital role of failure in the journey towards success. It underscores the significance of learning from setbacks and using them as stepping stones toward personal and professional growth. This quote encapsulates the resilience and perseverance required to overcome obstacles, serving as a source of motivation for those striving to achieve their aspirations.
