In a tough split decision, former UFC fighter Francis Ngannou was defeated by WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury on Sunday in Saudi Arabia.

Ngannou received a score of 95-94 on the other judge’s card, while Fury received scores of 96-93 and 95-94 on two of the judges’ cards.

With no title on the line, the fight went the full ten rounds and nearly produced one of the biggest upsets in boxing history.

In the third round, Ngannou delivered a huge blow that knocked the 35-year-old self-described “Gypsy King” to the canvas.

Tyson Fury survives scare from former UFC fighter Ngannou to win split decision in 'Battle of the Baddest' | Arab News

After stepping away from the 37-year-old to take a break in the corner, Fury appeared shocked and shaken but managed to stand up and finish the round.

The Cameroonian, who had never engaged in professional boxing, was acknowledged by the British boxer, who stated: “That was definitely not part of the script.

“Francis is an incredible combatant. Strong, powerful, and far more skilled at boxing than any of us ever imagined.

“Listen, I really respect this man even though he’s a very awkward puncher. Prior to and following the altercation.

He was really clumsy; instead of moving forward, he was just standing there, waiting for me to land a blow before attempting to counter.

“He’s given me probably one of my toughest fights in the last 10 years.”

“It’s part of boxing, I got caught behind my head again, I wasn’t hurt or anything,” Fury continued after commenting on the knockdown. I was fine; things were as they were.

“I won, though I’m not sure how close it was. You can see that I have ring rust because it has been 11 months since my last fight, which is another lengthy absence from the ring.

“I have no excuses; he is a skilled fighter who caught me with some well-timed punches. Above my left eye, I have a cut. I’m not sure if it was caused by a headbutt.”

Ngannou gave a strong performance, but in retrospect, he lamented that it didn’t go as planned. I may not have performed well today. I intend to return.

Tyson Fury survives scare from Ngannou to win split decision

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