Terence Crawford has reacted to Francis Ngannou’s performance against Tyson Fury after claiming the former UFC heavyweight champion had ‘zero chance’ of winning prior to the fight.
Ngannou was making his boxing debut against the WBC heavyweight champion of the world, who is undefeated. It was understandable, therefore, that the majority of the boxing community did not see how Ngannou could come out victorious. Despite suffering a split-decision loss, Ngannou did put in a commendable performance. The MMA fighter arguably landed the more eye-catching shots, dropping Fury in the third round with a left hook. And any worries over Ngannou gassing out later in the fight were put to bed as he stayed the course with Fury until the final bell. And after having dismissed his chances before the fight, Crawford has now given Ngannou his praise.
He lost like I said he was going to. He did good tho.
— Terence Crawford (@terencecrawford) November 3, 2023
That perception has now resulted in Ngannou being linked with the biggest fights in boxing. The big heavyweights, Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua, have been mentioned as opponents. Meanwhile, there is enough of a narrative in place for Ngannou to chase a Fury rematch. And after having received the highest payday of his career, Ngannou is putting himself in the conversation for more lucrative fights.