WBC ranks former UFC champion Francis Ngannou at 10th

Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou | Fight Highlights

The World Boxing Council (WBC) has ranked MMA fighter Francis Ngannou in tenth place following his boxing debut against Tyson Fury on October 28.

Ngannou defied all expectations when he knocked Fury down in the third round with a left hook and dominated the WBC heavyweight champion afterward.

However, Ngannou lost the match to a controversial 95-94 split decision favoring the British boxer. Despite the close call, “The Gypsy King” was not at risk of losing his WBC title as the WBC had not officially ranked “The Predator” during the October 28 match.

Ngannou’s mentor, Mike Tyson, dubbed the controversial split decision a “robbery.” Prior to the bout, Ngannou had left the UFC in January 2023.

In an interview with sports journalist Ariel Helwani, Ngannou revealed that the UFC had turned down his requests for health insurance, the ability for all UFC fighters to secure sponsorships and advocacy assistance during all fighter contract negotiations. After his requests were denied, the 37-year-old opted not to renew his contract with the UFC.

Prospects for Ngannou

Tyson expressed pride in his pupil’s accomplishment in nearly winning against Fury during the October 28 match. However, the “Kid Dynamite” deemed the ranking decision “not right” at the 2023 WBC Convention at the Hilton in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

“He did a great job [against Fury]. Number 10 is too low!” said Tyson during the convention.

Tyson clarified that Ngannou deserved a higher ranking for his capability to punch above his weight against a seasoned boxing champion in his debut boxing match.

Ngannou’s debut in boxing does not signify his departure from MMA. In an interview with Ariel Herwani, Ngannou mentioned the possibility of an MMA match against former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder in the near future. Wilder said he admired the Cameroonian-French fighter and looked forward to a match against him on a two-fight deal.