Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou Picks and Predictions: Gypsy King Picks Up Win as Massive Favorite

Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou is a heavyweight boxing attraction taking place today in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Dubbed “The Battle of the Baddest,” heavyweight champion Fury faces off against former UFC heavyweight champion for pride and bragging rights in this historic clash of the champions.

Boxing odds have Fury a massive favorite at -1,400, and boxing debutant Ngannou at +750. Here are my free picks for Fury vs. Ngannou from Riyadh.

Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou odds

Odds courtesy of DraftKings as of October 28, 2023.

Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou boxing prediction and best bet

Prediction: Fury

The odd timing of Tyson Fury’s announcement for the Usyk fight and recent footage of the heavyweight champion suggests he’s taking this non-title cash grab lightly.

Fury has weighed nearly 270 pounds in his last three fights and will have a five-inch advantage over Francis Ngannou... not to mention his full-time boxing experience. The Predator is doing what he can to make the most of his boxing debut, and he has to hope Fury is willing to play it safe and preserve himself for Usyk later this year.

Even if Fury is not in tip-top shape, his awkwardness and mobility will be enough to give Ngannou fits. His chin remains solid, and the angles he creates with his footwork amplify the force of his blows. Fury has never struggled with his conditioning, and because there is no cage to lean on for Ngannou, this fight could get nasty after four or five rounds. 

Ngannou’s power is his sole path to victory, but Fury can handle himself against big punchers. 

Similarly to Deontay Wilder, Ngannou’s unrefined technique will only carry him so far, and his power should fade dramatically before the halfway point of the fight. His heart and will should allow him to compete, but the writing will be on the wall shortly after the opening bell.

As it goes with most boxing vs. MMA matches, the “home team” is going to come up with a win. Fury will take a brave Ngannou out, and march towards his own quest to solidify his legacy this December.

Prediction: Fury moneyline (-1,400 at DraftKings)

Best Bet: Bout to last 4+ rounds (-250)

Ngannou’s clubbing shots won't find their mark, and with each heavy swing, Fury will be right there to punish him. Fury’s movement is enough to give Ngannou fits, and the advantages in size and experience should seal the deal for him.

When we also factor Ngannou’s layoff into things, this fight will turn increasingly one sided the longer it lasts. Fury should have Ngannou out of gas and hurt enough to end things before the final bell. Something tells me that if Fury isn’t feeling threatened, he’ll draw this out to get some rounds in, treating this as a pseudo-sparring session.

I can see Fury stretching Ngannou out and taking him down in the later rounds, so I expect this fight going four or more rounds as the best bet.

Prediction: Bout to last 4+ rounds (-250 at SIA)

Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou betting preview

Tyson Fury is following in the footsteps of Muhammad Ali and Floyd Mayweather before him, as he entertains a crossover clash against another combat sports star. Though many hoped Fury would not further prolong an undisputed title fight with Oleksandr Usyk or an overdue grudge match with Anthony Joshua, Francis Ngannou is an opportunity too big to pass up.

Former UFC heavyweight champion Ngannou is making his pro boxing debut after a 22-month layoff. Known for his ferocious striking power in MMA, “The Predator” is finally seeing his passion project come to life this Saturday.

Though Fury’s titles will not be on the line, this fight is not without intrigue. It’s hard to imagine Ngannou becoming a refined boxer at 37 — with years invested in MMA — but his power should carry over in the boxing ring, and he's going to give it his all.

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