“Aren’t even big enough to contend,” Former UFC title challenger makes stellar prediction on future of heavyweight boxing with Francis Ngannou in the picture

UFC fighter and analyst Anthony Smith shared his opinion on Francis Ngannou’s boxing performance. He also talked about the state of the heavyweight division in boxing.

“Aren’t even big enough to contend,” Former UFC title challenger makes stellar prediction on future of heavyweight boxing with Francis Ngannou in the picture

Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou and Anthony Smith (image credit- Marca)

Francis Ngannou and Tyson Fury fought each other in a closely contested battle. Many felt Ngannou did enough to win the bout but lost on the scorecard. Furthermore, former UFC light heavyweight contender Anthony Smith, who co-hosts the ‘Believe You Me’ podcast alongside Michael Bisping, praised Ngannou’s performance.

In an interview with The MMA Hour, Smith talked about the condition of the heavyweight division in boxing. This is what Smith stated: 

If anyone else was in that ring other than Tyson Fury, they don’t stay awake. I think Francis Ngannou beats them all. Like ‘that’ Francis. I think that version beats Joshua. That version smokes wilder; it absolutely smokes wilder. I think some of the other guys aren’t even big enough to contend. 
Anthony Smith via The MMA Hour.
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Hence, Smith stated that Ngannou could potentially beat anybody in the heavyweight division after his performance against Fury. He also indirectly praised Fury’s resolve to recover from the knockdown. Subsequently, Smith stated that anybody except Fury would have easily become unconscious if they fought Ngannou.

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Furthermore, Smith stated that Ngannou showed a different fighting style, starkly contrasting his earlier fights. In addition, Smith stated that Ngannou appeared calmer and faster, and this might be because Mike Tyson was his coach. Smith expects a bright future for Ngannou in boxing.

Anthony Smith predictions for Francis Ngannou vs. Jon Jones

Ngannou’s UFC career came to a grinding halt after abruptly leaving the promotion following a contract dispute with the UFC. Since he was the former UFC heavyweight champion, he was potentially supposed to fight Jon Jones. Furthermore, Ngannou and Jones had reached the pinnacle of the UFC heavyweight division during their careers.

Anthony Smith predicted Jon Jones vs. Francis Ngannou
Anthony Smith predicted Jon Jones vs. Francis Ngannou (via IMAGO)

Subsequently, the two of them could never meet in the octagon because Jones became inactive during Ngannou’s time as champion. In an interview with The MMA Hour, Smith stated that he believes that Ngannou would be unable to beat Jones. Furthermore, Smith stated that Jones has a very dynamic fighting style, which can easily neutralize his opponents.

In addition, Smith stated that Jones tends to neutralize an opponent. For example, in an area, they are an expert in, like striking or wrestling inside the octagon. Hence, Smith believes that Ngannou would not be able to defeat Jones. Furthermore, according to Smith, the fight would be a boring five-round bout.

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