Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou has shocked the boxing world and could be making his way into the top 10 of the World Boxing Council’s (WBC) heavyweight rankings following his controversial loss to Tyson Fury on Saturday night.
Ngannou, a fighter with no prior professional boxing experience, delivered a jaw-dropping performance against Fury. He landed several heavy punches and even managed to knock the Gypsy King down in the third round. Although Fury emerged as the ultimate victor, Ngannou’s remarkable showing has earned him a top-10 ranking from the WBC.
This achievement is nothing short of spectacular for a fighter still in the early stages of his boxing career. It also reflects the WBC’s openness to acknowledging and rewarding fighters from other combat sports disciplines.
Ngannou’s potential ascent into the top 10 may raise eyebrows among some boxing enthusiasts who argue that he has yet to prove himself in the sport. However, there is no denying Ngannou’s status as a formidable fighter possessing exceptional power and athleticism. His presence in the top 10 could inject even more competition and excitement into the heavyweight division in the months ahead.
In an interview with Sky Sports, WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman shed light on why he felt it was necessary to include Ngannou in the top 10.
Sulaiman stated, “Francis Ngannou’s performance against Tyson Fury was one of the most impressive displays I have witnessed from a fighter with no prior professional boxing experience. He demonstrated extraordinary power, athleticism, and skill. The WBC firmly believes that Ngannou has rightfully secured a place in the top 10 of the heavyweight rankings.”
Sky Sports approached Sulaiman, who reaffirmed, “Based on what I personally observed last night, Ngannou is a legitimate boxer deserving of a WBC ranking, and I will make such recommendations to the ratings committee.”
Ngannou has not yet commented on the possibility of him making it into the WBC ranking, but his reaction is eagerly anticipated in the days to come.
It remains to be seen if Ngannou can clinch a heavyweight world title, but he has unquestionably proven his ability to compete at the highest echelons of the sport. His potential to be included in the top 10 promises to infuse even more intensity and excitement into the heavyweight division in the near future.
