Editor’s note: This article was originally published at MMAJunkie.com.
Tyson Fury is still interested in boxing Francis Ngannou.
The heavyweight champion proposed the pair square off in a boxing match with MMA gloves, which the UFC heavyweight champion was very much game for.
Although the odds would not be stacked in favor of Ngannou (17-3 MMA, 12-2 UFC), who will be stepping into Fury’s world, “The Gypsy King” did not downplay Ngannou’s skills at all.
“He’s definitely a machine, that’s for sure,” Fury told ESPN. “He’s definitely a good puncher and all that, and let’s face it: It’s not a wrestling match, or no grabbing or anything. It’s just a standup punching battle with small gloves on. …
“Dillian Whyte’s a much harder challenge than Francis Ngannou at this moment for me, so I only focus on Dillian Whyte for the next fight.”
Fury has to get past Whyte in a fight expected to be announced soon. Ngannou is coming off his first title defense against Ciryl Gane at UFC 270 and is expected to be sidelined for the majority of the year after he undergoes knee surgery in March.
In order for Ngannou to get his desired wish to box Fury, the UFC would have to grant him permission. Ngannou currently is contractually tied and his deal extended for an additional fight after he retained his title against Gane.