Tyson Fury beats Francis Ngannou in controversial split decision

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WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury beat Francis Ngannou in a controversial split decision in Saudi Arabia on Saturday.

Francis Ngannou, 37, had put Tyson Fury on the canvas in round three after connecting with a left hook.

“I got caught round the back of the head. I wasn’t hurt. I got up and got back to my boxing.

“He’s an awkward man and a good puncher and I respect him a lot. He’s given me one of my toughest fights of the last 10 years.”

But while one judge scored it 95-94 in favour of Ngannou, two gave it to Fury at 96-93 and 95-94.

Fury’s WBC heavyweight belt was not on the line.

“That definitely wasn’t a knockdown,” Fury said after the fight. “I’m a professional, I stayed composed and got back up and won the fight.”

Fury, who improved to 30-0-1 with 21 knockouts, said he would now like to fight Deontay Wilder for a third time.

“I want the trilogy,” Fury said. “I came out here to have a good fight and I hope I delivered tonight.”

Ngannou, who was fighting for the first time since losing to Stipe Miocic in August 2018, fell to 15-3 with 12 knockouts.

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