Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou LIVE! Boxing result, updates and reaction as Gypsy King gets controversial win

Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou - LIVE!

Tyson Fury was hugely fortunate to avoid the first professional defeat of his career as he earned a controversial points win to survive an almighty scare against Francis Ngannou. It was the former UFC champion who dominated the crossover bout in Riyadh, dropping Fury in the third round and appearing to be the much stronger, and more comfortable, fighter in the ring over a barely believable ten rounds.

Fury suffered a graze to his forehead in the early stages and swelling began to appear below his left eye as the fight went on, Ngannou able to overpower the WBC champion on the inside and boxing superbly at range in his first ever boxing bout. It meant Fury seemingly needed a stoppage in the final round to avoid what would have been the biggest shock in boxing history, and one that would have left plans for an undisputed showdown between Fury and Oleksandr Usyk at the end of the year in ruins.

Whether a bruised Fury is ready for that proposed December 23 date remains to be seen, but that it is even an option is down to a very debatable set of scorecards. Fury seemed to be well behind as the final bell sounded, Ngannou celebrating with far more vigour, yet it was the Gypsy King who earned a split-decision win to boos around the arena, as one judge scored it 95-94 to Ngannou and the other two went 96-93 and 95-94 for Fury.

Fury vs Ngannou latest news

• Fury edges controversial points decision

• Wardley stops Adeleye in chief support

• Parker wins on undercard after Itauma and Bakole stoppages

• Full card results

Tonight's results in full

01:52 , Matt Verri

Tyson Fury beat Francis Ngannou via split decision

Fabio Wardley beat David Adeleye via R7 TKO

Joseph Parker beat Simon Kean via R3 KO

Arslanbek Makhmudov beat Junior Anthony Wright via R1 TKO

Moses Itauma beat Istvan Bernath via R1 TKO

Martin Bakole beat Carlos Takam via R4 TKO

Jack McGann beat Roberto Duran Jr via R2 TKO

Just like all of us!

01:30 , Matt Verri

Oleksandr Usyk as stunned as the rest of the world as he watched on at ringside.

"Fury deserved to lose"

01:05 , Matt Verri

Chris Eubank Jr has his say...

Ngannou: I can do this s***

Sunday 29 October 2023 00:58 , Matt Verri

Francis Ngannou very gracious in the circumstances, as he talks about wanting a rematch. I would suggest Fury won't go anywhere NEAR that.

"I feel fantastic," Ngannou says. "I'm very happy.

"I'm ready to fight anytime. We can run it back again and I'm sure I'm going to get better. This was my first boxing fight and it was a great experience.

"At first, I was a little bit nervous. New sport that I never did. Now I know I can do this s***. Get ready."

"Let's go!"

Sunday 29 October 2023 00:48 , Matt Verri

Simple message from Usyk, as he gets into the ring.

This was supposed to get the big promotion tonight after Fury eased to victory over Ngannou. That was the plan.

Instead, it's all very flat. Incredible night.

Sunday 29 October 2023 00:42 , Matt Verri

Fury and Usyk get in the ring together, discussing that undisputed heavyweight showdown. Full quotes to come.

They both say they want it next - nobody confirming that December 23 date though. The way Fury's face is looking, that appears unlikely.

Fury's reaction...

Sunday 29 October 2023 00:36 , Matt Verri

Tyson Fury not his usual brash self - even he looks a bit stunned with what happened there.

Sunday 29 October 2023 00:32 , Matt Verri

Fury's face is swollen up. Cut to his forehand, big lump below his left eye.

Would have to imagine there is no chance he fights Oleksandr Usyk on December 23.

He is so, so lucky to have got that decision. Didn't deserve the win at all.

Sunday 29 October 2023 00:29 , Matt Verri

95-94 Ngannou. 96-93 Fury (that's absurd).

95-94... Fury!

You are joking. Fury wins by split decision and that is absolutely disgraceful.

Sunday 29 October 2023 00:26 , Matt Verri

Ngannou is celebrating, he's bouncing on the ropes. He thinks he's won.

I do too. So does everyone who has watched that fight honestly. Fury raises a glove - no chance, surely.

We're going to the cards. Fury needs a miracle.

Fury vs Ngannou

Sunday 29 October 2023 00:24 , Matt Verri

What on earth is Fury doing?!

Nothing is the answer, but he surely has to throw the kitchen sink and anything else he can find at this.

Ngannou the man taking the big risk, he's in mid-air as he throws himself into right hand.

Final ten seconds, Fury isn't moving. This is mental.

That's it. Fury has surely just lost.

Fury vs Ngannou

Sunday 29 October 2023 00:23 , Matt Verri

Round 10

Here we go then. Fury with three minutes to save himself.

Make that two, the first minute passes with nothing thrown from either man. Ngannou doesn't need to do anything - Fury boxing like a man who doesn't think he has to do anything.

Usyk looks as stunned as anyone at ringside. This is not what he expected or wanted.

There's 90 seconds to go... Fury needs a knockout!

Fury vs Ngannou

Sunday 29 October 2023 00:20 , Matt Verri

Round 9

It's a very sombre mood in the Fury corner. They're all a bit stunned, as is everyone in the arena.

He's still more than capable of turning this around. Long, long six minutes ahead for Ngannou, who is breathing heavily.

Fury is trying to goad Ngannou into doing something reckless, but it's still patient from the former UFC champion. Perfect gameplan.

Fury still just bouncing around, no urgency at all. Frank Warren at ringside looks like he's about to throw up. Still just a single jab to the body from Fury, he's being urged forward but no interest seemingly.

Probably Fury's round, but surely not enough at this stage.

Fury vs Ngannou

Sunday 29 October 2023 00:16 , Matt Verri

Round 8

Big left hand from Ngannou, Fury backed into the corner! This is madness. Fury looks for the right uppercut, Ngannou smothers him on the inside.

It is so, so strange to see Fury being shoved around. Ngannou very much the stronger man in there. And it's Ngannou who is looking full of confidence, marches forward and looks to land a right hand.

Fury hanging on, he's all over the place! Ngannou sensing a stoppage, Fury is just trying to hold. You heard.

This is a big flurry from Ngannou, throwing everything at it now. Will it cost him in the final two rounda?

We'll see. For now, it's another round for Ngannou. If he hears the final bell, it increasingly looks like he'll win this.

Fury vs Ngannou

Sunday 29 October 2023 00:12 , Matt Verri

Round 7

Has Ngannou got another burst in him? If he does, he could genuinely win this fight.

Still very patient, waiting for his chances. Fury not pushing things either, he's still backing himself to come out on top through the ten rounds.

Very little thrown in the opening 90 seconds of the fight - bit of tension from both. Surely neither honestly expected to be in this situation.

Fury is down again, but he lost his balance before Ngannou shoved him down. That was a bit ragged from Fury though as he moved in, wasn't in control.

That's a very even round, nothing in it. For now, Ngannou continues to hold it together.

Three rounds to go - Fury needs two of them. At least.

Fury vs Ngannou

Sunday 29 October 2023 00:08 , Matt Verri

Round 6

Some of these shots from Ngannou starting to miss now, tiring a bit? Wouldn't be a surprise, in his first boxing fight.

Fury looks for the uppercut, just bounces off Ngannou. All the talk will be about Fury, but it is incredible how impressive Ngannou has been in terms of boxing fundamentals. Mike Tyson might know what he's talking about...

Fury's round, starting to get a bit more control.

Fury vs Ngannou

Sunday 29 October 2023 00:04 , Matt Verri

Round 5

Ngannou has won three of the opening rounds I'd say, and one of those was a 10-8. This is insane. Fury needs to get going.

That's a bit wild from Ngannou, looks for a monstrous right hand that misses by a mile. Touch of the glove and a smirk from Fury.

Ngannou just so powerful, he's matching Fury physically. The only question is whether his engine can take him ten rounds. If it can, Fury has huge problems.

Watch out, this could change in a second. Ngannou's head snapped back by Fury, starting to find his range?

Much cleaner work at the end of that round. He needed that. He's still favourite, is Fury, but this has been a crazy first half of the fight.

Fury vs Ngannou

Sunday 29 October 2023 00:00 , Matt Verri

Round 4

Ngannou is so confident in there. He's landing some lovely shots, but it's all being set up by the jab. Some really nice boxing.

Fury tries to hold again, Ngannou just shoves him off. And he looks to land a right hand, Fury just about sees it coming in time. Fury is being overpowered, Ngannou is up to the task on the inside.

Fury has definitely been sparked into action, he's throwing big right hands now. Ngannou hasn't taken one flush yet though.

It's a very tight round - dare I say Ngannou is ahead on the cards!

Fury vs Ngannou

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:56 , Matt Verri

Round 3

And now the arena really has erupted.

Fury looks to have his legs under him, but he got caught with a left hook on the top of the head as he moved in.

Legs look to be under him, he survives the final 10 seconds or so of the round.

WOW.

Fury vs Ngannou

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:55 , Matt Verri

Round 3

Will that spark Fury into action a bit? He doesn't look particularly comfortable, Ngannou lands a left hook!

Fury has so many levels in the locker if he needs them - might need to start turning it on a bit. Ngannou is looking very settled.

The twitchy head movement is there for Fury, still not much in the way of clean shots. Risks another head clash as he lunges in to hold.

FURY DOWN! NGANNOU HAS DROPPED FURY!

Fury vs Ngannou

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:51 , Matt Verri

Round 2

To be fair, that was a decent opening round for Ngannou. Nothing rash, looks solid enough. He hasn't rushed out of the blocks at all, been very cautious.

Ngannou has Fury backed into the corner, surely has to let his hands go here. No, still cagey. Fury grabs hold of him and rolls into space.

Fury is pawing at his eye, seems to be causing him a few problems. A cut is the last thing he needs.

It looks like he has got a cut, Fury. On his forehand, it's grazed and it's definitely annoying him.

Very little in the way of action in that round, but that's all a bit irrelevant compared to Fury being cut!

Fury vs Ngannou

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:47 , Matt Verri

Round 1

Fury rushes out of his corner from the opening bell, looks to land a big shot after two seconds. Ngannou sees it coming.

Decent enough start from Ngannou, right hand forces Fury back a bit onto the ropes.

After that early burst, Fury is happy to just move his head around, not looking to really throw anything yet. Just working Ngannou out for now.

Nice jab to the body from Fury, Ngannou then lands a right that was very much below the belt. Fury responds with an overhand right that crashes into Ngannou's head.

Both letting their hands go all of a sudden - it's a good watch. Fury, obviously, takes the opening round.

IT. IS. TIME.

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:44 , Matt Verri

I have good news for you all.

It is actually time to get underway in this main event.

Ten rounds scheduled. If it goes that long, something has gone very wrong for Fury.

We're up and running in the opening round!

Understated as ever...

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:41 , Matt Verri

Fury's ring walk for you to enjoy while Michael Buffer continues with reading out the name of every person currently in Saudi Arabia.

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:38 , Matt Verri

Time for the national anthems.

Saudi Arabia first up, before Ngannou nods along to the Cameroon anthem.

God Save the King and then we will be ready at long, long, long last.

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:35 , Matt Verri

Fury isn't looking hugely relaxed as he sits on the throne, foot tapping away. Looks like a man who wants to get on with it.

No Mike Tyson to take his crown off, so he has to get changed himself.

And he's broken into a jog as he struts around in a circle, bit of shadow boxing. Certainly in no rush to start moving towards the ring, so Ngannou best get comfortable.

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:32 , Matt Verri

Right, that wasn't half bad.

Now over to Fury. Ricky Hatton and Frank Bruno among those backstage fist pumping him on his way out, Lennox Lewis there too. And Evander Holyfield. That's enough for now.

Jolene is Fury's initial choice of music - we're going to get a fair few songs I imagine.

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:29 , Matt Verri

We've got people waving Cameroon flags, we've got Michael Buffer... and now we've got Francis Ngannou!

He's sat on a throne, crown on his head too. Seems to be wearing basically the same thing as Fury - probably should have had a chat about that at the weigh-in.

Mike Tyson lifts the crown off his head and the walk to the ring begins.

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:24 , Matt Verri

Fury has just had a crown put on his head. This has all the signs of a ring walk that is going to take ten minutes itself.

As ever, he's got plenty of his team right behind him.

We've cut to Michael Buffer in the ring. It is time!

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:21 , Matt Verri

Sweet Caroline next up on the playlist.

That usually means the fight is coming up next. Usually. We've been playing by very different rules tonight though, so who knows.

Hold up - Fury has stood up in his dressing room. He's ready to walk.

HERE WE GO.

Ngannou: I need to start fast

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:17 , Matt Verri

"I know him and I know his game," he tells TNT Sports. "I am not playing his game, I playing mine.

"I have to start fast. I need to find my pace in the right and wait for the opportunity when it comes.

"So many people play mind games, but this can't get to me. I've been in the game so long now, I consider it a part of the game. It's nothing personal.

Usyk as relaxed as ever...

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:14 , Matt Verri

Usyk is ringside watching on. Assuming Fury gets the job done here with no cuts or injuries, we are set to get an undisputed showdown on December 23.

Already dreading that opening ceremony.

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:12 , Matt Verri

I'm going to give up making predictions about when this fight might start.

I think Fury and Ngannou still intend on coming to the ring. That's all I can say for now.

'Freed from Desire' blasting out now - it's reached Riyadh.

Stars are in!

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:07 , Matt Verri

Cristiano Ronaldo has just arrived ringside, all the VIPs seem to just be getting in.

How strange that they didn't all flock in for the opening ceremony. Sure they were all tuned in backstage.

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:03 , Matt Verri

Ngannou is in his dressing room doing a bit of pad work, finishing off his warm-up. No sign of Fury, he may well have chased the cameras away.

So we've had the opening ceremony, now we've got... nothing.

I promise you Fury vs Ngannou is coming up.

Saturday 28 October 2023 23:01 , Matt Verri

For those of you who are fans of boxing rings emerging from the ground, you're in luck.

Saturday 28 October 2023 22:59 , Matt Verri

And... it's all over.

We made it. So, that's the main attraction of the night over, the opening ceremony is done. Hope you enjoyed it.

Rumours that we might have a boxing fight now to finish the night off.

Saturday 28 October 2023 22:57 , Matt Verri

There is actually some crowd noise for the first time tonight. Will assume that comes with the soundtrack.

The ring has just emerged from under the arena, rising up. No, no idea why.

Saturday 28 October 2023 22:52 , Matt Verri

This opening ceremony has now lasted longer than pretty much every single fight on the undercard. Make of that what you will.

Wouldn't surprise me if Fury pops out to do a bit of American Pie in a minute.

Saturday 28 October 2023 22:49 , Matt Verri

This noise is almost as bad as the waiting music we had earlier when TNT Sports packed in for a bit.

Lil Baby has been and gone, we're moved onto someone else. More musical insight to come.

Saturday 28 October 2023 22:47 , Matt Verri

Ngannou has been prowling around his dressing room. Imagine he'd pay a decent amount of $10m purse to stop this ceremony and let the fight begin.

Anyway, on we go with the... performances.

It's endless.

Opening ceremony is underway!

Saturday 28 October 2023 22:43 , Matt Verri

My music knowledge is going to be horrifically exposed here.

We've got a lot of flashing lights, some dancers and a guy shouting "Riyadh Season".

Please let the boxing start.

Ronaldo in the building!

Saturday 28 October 2023 22:38 , Matt Verri

Cristiano Ronaldo has arrived, and so too has Ronaldo of Brazilian fame.

Think of anyone big from the world of sport and they are probably in attendance.

Settle in...

Saturday 28 October 2023 22:30 , Matt Verri

"Think about the Olympics, think about the Super Bowl", is the message about this opening ceremony.

That worries me. That stuff goes on forever. Sooner we get to the main event, the better.

Saturday 28 October 2023 22:27 , Matt Verri

We do, obviously, have an 'opening ceremony' before the main event. Because why not?

Judging by some of the people floating around Riyadh this week, there is basically nobody who could walk out that would surprise me.

Not long now!

Saturday 28 October 2023 22:21 , Matt Verri

Ngannou nice and relaxed in his dressing room, as he gets his hands wrapped.

Remember, we've got a whole different arena for the main event tonight than we had for the undercard. It's filling up.

Saturday 28 October 2023 22:19 , Matt Verri

Conor McGregor is in the building. Of course he is.

He's asked for his advice to Ngannou tonight: 'Bury him in the leg'

Not sure Fury taking a huge kick would go down particularly well...

Fury's thoughts backstage...

Saturday 28 October 2023 22:13 , Matt Verri

"Nearly go-time. Here's me still relaxed.

"Just an entertainer, that's what I am. Here to put on a show and get the victory. That what I'm here to do.

"They've all got the same chance, a puncher's chance the opponents I face.

"This is no time for slipping up."

The undercard is done!

Saturday 28 October 2023 22:11 , Matt Verri

That wraps up the undercard then... the main event is next!

Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou. Everything points to a Fury win, and a comfortable one at that. Ngannou tasked with shocking the world.

Stay with us!

Plenty of luggage to take home!

Saturday 28 October 2023 22:05 , Matt Verri

Wardley will be heading back to the UK with plenty of suitcases...

Saturday 28 October 2023 22:02 , Matt Verri

Adeleye says he got caught with a thumb in the eye and couldn't see. That is a fairly significant disadvantage, I would imagine.

Also says he's unhappy with the referee stopping it, but Steve Bunce tells him the stoppage was a good one and he seems to have been won over.

Otherwise very gracious from Adeleye, makes it clear he wants a rematch.

Wardley's reaction in the ring

Saturday 28 October 2023 22:00 , Matt Verri

"He was trying to goad me, get me to come forward. I do that when I have to do, but I have a boxing IQ. I'm smart.

"The difference was experience. I knew what to do when the rounds went on, in situations that didn't go my way. I felt in form, that's probably the best I've felt."

"I'm smart, I'm beating high-level amateurs over and over.

"Any man that beats the count has heart, but I knew in myself I had so much more."

Saturday 28 October 2023 21:58 , Matt Verri

Frazer Clarke watching on at ringside. He was ordered to fight Wardley earlier this year, before his promotional team then pulled him out of negotiations.

Sure he'll be keen to try and get involved with Wardley in the near future.

Wardley comes out on top!

Saturday 28 October 2023 21:55 , Matt Verri

Adeleye wanted to continue, but it's probably a fair stoppage.

Wardley was up 59-55 on two of the cards, and 60-54 on the other one. Not sure about that, but doesn't matter now.

Wardley stops Adeleye!

Saturday 28 October 2023 21:52 , Matt Verri

Round 7

Into the second half of the fight we go. Adeleye needs a better round.

Wardley's jab has really found its range, he's looking the fresher of the two. Adeleye considers another forearm, wisely pulls out.

ADELEYE DOWN! He just about beats the count, but he's got another 35 seconds to survive.

Wardley throwing the kitchen sink at him, Adeleye swinging away too. Anything could happen here.

Adeleye being tagged, he's in real trouble... IT'S ALL OVER!

Referee waves it off - Adeleye is furious.

Wardley vs Adeleye

Saturday 28 October 2023 21:49 , Matt Verri

Round 6

Referee has another stern word with Adeleye over that forearm - just a warning. That will surely be the final one.

Reminder that 12 rounds are scheduled here... neither have previously been beyond six!

Wardley having a good round here, Adeleye looking a bit rocked. His lip is bleeding too, it's Wardley marching forward.

Long right hand lands again from the champion, Adeleye under a fair bit of pressure. Wardley's best round of the fight.... may well be level at halfway.

Wardley vs Adeleye

Saturday 28 October 2023 21:44 , Matt Verri

Round 5

Feels like the kind of fight where somebody is going to walk onto a big punch out of nowhere, and it will all suddenly be over in a hurry.

Adeleye threatening to do just that, there's that left hand again. Wardley's head rocked back.

The forearm comes out again, into the throat of Wardley. Adeleye could find himself in trouble if he keeps doing that.

Nice flurry from Wardley on the bell, not sure it's enough to win the round though.

Wardley vs Adeleye

Saturday 28 October 2023 21:40 , Matt Verri

Round 4

Pace has eased off again, neither taking too many risks here.

Wardley starts to let his hands go, with Adeleye pushed back onto the ropes, but nothing clean lands.

Momentum is with Wardley, a couple of nice jabs and then another nice right hand. Adeleye nearly lands a counter, just misses with the left.

Wardley's round - could well be level on the cards.

Wardley vs Adeleye

Saturday 28 October 2023 21:36 , Matt Verri

Round 3

Wardley's best shot of the match, lands the right hand. Adeleye responds by shoving a forearm into the throat of Wardley and pushing him onto the ropes - referee unimpressed.

Bit of showboating from Adeleye, looks to the crowd as Wardley misses with a wild right.

It's Adeleye's turn to miss by a mile, the left hook is nowhere near landing.

More like it from Wardley in that round, started to find his range a bit more. We'll got Adeleye 2-1 up after three.

Wardley vs Adeleye

Saturday 28 October 2023 21:32 , Matt Verri

Round 2

Wardley takes another clean shot from Adeleye, his chin is really being tested in the early stages.

Adeleye looking much more comfortable, but it's been a fairly scrappy round.

Maybe just about Adeleye taking it again, but there was nothing in that one really.

Wardley vs Adeleye

Saturday 28 October 2023 21:28 , Matt Verri

Round 1

Shame this isn't being fought with some sort of atmosphere. So, so quiet. All feels very tense.

It's Adeleye who has made a more confident start, he's looked to land a couple of big shots. Wardley patient so far.

That's more like it, Wardley to the body, but Adeleye responds with a huge right... that just misses. Would have been trouble for Wardley had that landed.

This one does land, lovely left. Adeleye takes the opening round.

Saturday 28 October 2023 21:25 , Matt Verri

Referee needs to tell them three times to touch gloves before the fight.

Eventually, and reluctantly, they do.

We're up and running!

Waiting is over

Saturday 28 October 2023 21:22 , Matt Verri

Time for the chief support!

Neither of these two have ever been particularly deep in a professional fight before, so who knows what will happen if we get past halfway.

Here we go...

Saturday 28 October 2023 21:19 , Matt Verri

Adeleye is in the ring, he'll have to wait around a bit as Wardley now gets announced.

Fair to say these are not normal surroundings for a British heavyweight title fight...

Saturday 28 October 2023 21:16 , Matt Verri

A lot of talk about a cut on Wardley's chin, which he got when the pair clashed at an event in the build-up.

He's apparently needed a fair number of stitches on it, and you can still see the cut. We shall see how it holds up.

The pair will very shortly be on their way to the ..ring.

Main man has spoken!

Saturday 28 October 2023 21:10 , Matt Verri

Slightly biased, as he has trained Ngannou, but Mike Tyson has had his say...

One to go!

Saturday 28 October 2023 21:07 , Matt Verri

One more fight on the undercard before the main event.

It's a big, big one too. Wardley vs Adeleye for the British heavyweight title... in Riyadh.

A lot of bad blood in the build-up to this one.

Usyk delivers his verdict

Saturday 28 October 2023 20:57 , Matt Verri

Oleksandr Usyk is back stage in Riyadh, and he's been looking ahead to tonight's action and to that expected fight with Tyson Fury in December.

"Yes, I want Tyson Fury to win," he tells TNT Sports.

"Listen. This man [Ngannou] is world champion in UFC. I think Francis Ngannou has a chance, but Tyson Fury has more of a chance.

"[Fury vs Usyk] has to happen at the end of December and it's going to be just amazing."

Warren: Joshua way down the list for Fury

Saturday 28 October 2023 20:48 , Matt Verri

An all-British showdown between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury is ­further away than ever, according to promoter Frank Warren.

The two boxers have come close to agreeing terms in the past, with Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn last week saying a clash between the pair was a must fight if both won their proposed bouts against Deontay Wilder and Oleksandr Usyk.

But Warren argued Joshua was well down the list for fighters on Fury’s wish list. A deal has been agreed for Fury to face Usyk on December 23 back in Saudi Arabia.

Talks are ongoing about a Joshua-Wilder showdown in early 2024, paving the way for a possible meeting between Fury and Joshua later in the year.

Fury has this week downplayed that suggestion, though, claiming Joshua is “out in the cold” and no longer “relevant” to him, a sentiment echoed by his promoter.

“Hearn said winning [against Joshua] would be Tyson’s legacy but Joshua has only won two of his last five fights,” said Warren.

“He’s well down the list of mandatory challengers. He was offered the fight twice in 12 months and didn’t take it. That says a lot.”

Ngannou in the building!

Saturday 28 October 2023 20:43 , Matt Verri

Not giving away much to the 'body language experts'...

Parker's post-fight thoughts...

Saturday 28 October 2023 20:38 , Matt Verri

"We knew that Simon was going to step up. He was very tough until we landed a good shot at the end.

"Just have to listen to your coach. The jab, never forget your jab. The jab sets everything up.

"We're looking to fight in December. I've loved it out here, would be awesome to come back and get another win."

Main event isn't too far away...

Saturday 28 October 2023 20:34 , Matt Verri

Only one more fight on the undercard to come before we shift our focus to the main event.

Parker stops Kean!

Saturday 28 October 2023 20:31 , Matt Verri

Round 3

Lovely uppercut from Parker and all of a sudden he's jumped all over Kean.

And Kean is down! Sensational from Parker, uppercut again.

Kean isn't going to beat the count... all over! Parker has a third-round win.

Parker vs Kean

Saturday 28 October 2023 20:27 , Matt Verri

Round 2

Parker definitely looks the better fighter in there, Kean hasn't really got going.

The jab from Parker continues to deliver, and he backs it up with good work to the body. Very much in control.

There is still absolutely no atmosphere in the arena - can hear the corners very clearly.

Another round for Parker.

Parker vs Kean

Saturday 28 October 2023 20:24 , Matt Verri

Round 1

Parker has started really well here, sharp jabs and he can't miss with that at the moment.

More like it from Kean, lands his first shot, but Parker took it well. Not a huge amount of pace in the fight.

Parker will be happy with that for an opening three minutes.

Here we go!

Saturday 28 October 2023 20:19 , Matt Verri

The heavyweight duo are in the ring.

Must-win for Parker, of course, if he is to get back to the top of the division.

Would be a surprise if this one proved to be as quick a fight as the ones we've already had tonight...

Time to get up and running.

Saturday 28 October 2023 20:13 , Matt Verri

Feel like we're very much filling time now.

We've had those quick fights so far on the undercard, so you'd imagine we're well ahead of schedule.

Joseph Parker and Simon Kean should be on their way to the ring very soon.

Not too shabby...

Saturday 28 October 2023 20:06 , Matt Verri

Sure Tyson Fury will be fairly comfortable in the build-up tonight!

Fury vs Ngannou a mismatch

Saturday 28 October 2023 20:02 , Matt Verri

Since Anthony Joshua was beaten for a second time by Oleksandr Usyk in the summer of 2022, heavyweight boxing has been all about the fights which have not materialised.

There were false starts and seemingly false promises about Joshua facing Tyson Fury, and latterly Fury coming up against Usyk.

At long last, though, something tangible is on the horizon. An agreement for Fury to fight Usyk has finally been reached, and that bout is now pencilled in for December 23.

“Usyk has to fight me in December, doesn’t have a choice,” Fury said this week. “He signed the contract, so if he doesn’t, he gets sued.”

First, though, a boxing mismatch. Fury faces Francis Ngannou in a contest billed as the Battle of the Baddest.

Carl Froch was among those a tad more disparaging in his pre-fight billing, calling it a “joke-shop fight”. The former super-middleweight champion is right in saying “it’s not boxing”.

Read our full preview here!

Coming up next

Saturday 28 October 2023 19:57 , Matt Verri

Not much longer to go until we move inside.

Remember, the main event (and the 'opening ceremony' before it) is taking place in a different arena.

Before then, we've got:

Fabio Wardley vs David Adeleye

Joseph Parker vs Simon Kean

Makhmudov's reaction...

Saturday 28 October 2023 19:52 , Matt Verri

"Listen. Not everybody wants to fight with me, my team have to do good work to organise a fight," he says.

Asked if he would be happy to fight anyone in the division, he responds: "Exactly."

Saturday 28 October 2023 19:50 , Matt Verri

So that's 18-0 now for Makhmudov, 17 of those wins coming inside the distance.

Dare say there won't be too many in the division rushing to face him. I really cannot emphasise enough how unnerving it is just to look at him, let alone fight him.

Makhmudov stops Wright!

Saturday 28 October 2023 19:45 , Matt Verri

Round 1

Dear me - Wright down inside a minute! Right hand is absolutely brutal.

Referee reluctantly lets Wright continue, but Makhmudov is swiftly on the scene again. Another huge right hand landed and the referee jumps in!

It's all over.

Saturday 28 October 2023 19:43 , Matt Verri

Boos for Wright as his name gets read out. Clearly a big Makhmudov fan club in Riyadh.

Would be fair to say Makhmudov is not usually one to hang around. He's 17-0... 16 of those wins have come by knockout.

We're up and running - my expert opinion so far is that Makhmudov looks absolutely terrifying. To be avoided at all costs.

Ten rounds scheduled.

On we go!

Saturday 28 October 2023 19:38 , Matt Verri

Time for some more heavyweight action.

The unbeaten Arslanbek Makhmudov goes up against Junior Anthony Wright - the fighters are on their way to the ring!

Fury happy fight will go on record

Saturday 28 October 2023 19:33 , Matt Verri

It has been confirmed that tonight's main event will go down as a professional fight.

Tyson Fury's WBC title is not on the line, but the fight is coming under the jurisdiction of the British Boxing Board of Control.

It means the result of the bout will count towards the professional records of the pair.

Fury said: "I'm happy because... before it was going to be like a result on the night but not an official win or loss on the record. Now it makes things a bit tastier."

Itauma not lacking in confidence!

Saturday 28 October 2023 19:29 , Matt Verri

Decent night's work...

Frank Warren's post-fight thoughts...

Saturday 28 October 2023 19:27 , Matt Verri

"He's very ambitious, he wants to win a world title in record time. But we've got make the right matches, pick the right fighters at the right time.

"He's doing a fabulous job. He's a ferocious puncher."

Saturday 28 October 2023 19:22 , Matt Verri

Fair to say Bernath was never in that.

Got dropped by a fairly stiff jab, and then the really big shots came flying in.

Itauma jumped all over him, knowing nothing was coming back, and it's victory with one minute 53 seconds on the clock.

The teenager marches on.

Itauma stops Bernath!

Saturday 28 October 2023 19:19 , Matt Verri

Round 1

Six rounds scheduled in this one. Itauma straight on the front foot, working to the body.

Bernath down! Not even 90 seconds gone and Itauma sends his opponent crashing to the canvas.

And now another massive right hand - it's a bit wild from Itauma as he looks to finish this off. Massive uppercut, right hook... and it's over!

The referee jumps in and Itauma wins inside two minutes.

Saturday 28 October 2023 19:16 , Matt Verri

The sounds has cut out on the TNT coverage.

Poor Darren Fletcher, the commentator, is heard saying "tell me when it's back on" just as the sound kicks in again. It's not going very well.

Well, let's enjoy this while we can. Itauma and Bernath are in the ring.

Coverage is back!

Saturday 28 October 2023 19:12 , Matt Verri

TNT Sports have got things together again. For now.

Right, time to get straight back into it. Moses Itauma vs Istvan Bernath.

Let's go.

Saturday 28 October 2023 19:03 , Matt Verri

Plenty of excitement surrounding Moses Itauma, who has said from the very start of his professional career that he wants to be the youngest ever heavyweight world champion.

Big stage for him tonight - unfortunately nobody can watch it at the moment.

He is expected in the ring now, that may change though considering the broadcast issues.

Issues for fans at home

Saturday 28 October 2023 18:58 , Matt Verri

Huge night of boxing ahead - it's not got off to a great start.

TNT Sports Box Office has said they "hope to correct the fault shortly", but it's been down for close to 15 minutes now.

Good news for fans of awful waiting music. Bad news for fans who paid for some boxing and would like to watch it.

Plenty on the line...

Saturday 28 October 2023 18:55 , Matt Verri

It's not expected to be a particularly tough test in the ring for Fury tonight, but there is plenty on the line.

Should he come through without any complications, he is expected to fight Oleksandr Usyk on December 23 in a much-awaited undisputed showdown.

It's the fight the fans want - everyone will be hoping Fury does not pick up a cut or an injury tonight.

Fury wants a war

Saturday 28 October 2023 18:49 , Matt Verri

Tyson Fury has insisted he will be frustrated if his crossover bout with Francis Ngannou is not a "war" tonight.

At Wednesday's workout, Fury repeatedly took aim at the shape Ngannou was in, claiming the 37-year-old was embarrassed to take his t-shirt off.

As confident as ever, Fury ripped his own top off mid-interview and urged Ngannou to test him in the ring, claiming he will be "disappointed" if he has it all his own way during the fight.

"That's what you call shape - this man is fit for 25 rounds, non-stop", Fury told TNT Sports.

Asked if he expected the fight to turn into an all-action war, he added: "Yeah and if it's not I'll be disappointed.

"I've trained for 10 rounds. If it's anything easier, then I've had an easy night."

Still to come...

Saturday 28 October 2023 18:44 , Matt Verri

So, one heavyweight fight down... plenty to go!

That British title bout between Wardley and Adeleye is the final action before Fury and Ngannou enter the ring.

Before that though, the likes of Joseph Parker and Moses Itauma take centre stage.

Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou 

Fabio Wardley vs David Adeleye

Joseph Parker vs Simon Kean

Arslanbek Makhmudov v Junior Anthony Wright

Moses Itauma vs Istvan Bernath

How Bakole got the job done

Saturday 28 October 2023 18:40 , Matt Verri

Takam was taking a lot of punishment, it's a good stoppage from the referee.

Trainer Billy Nelson gives his thoughts...

Saturday 28 October 2023 18:37 , Matt Verri

"I told him he had to let his hands go a little bit more. He was much faster than Carlos.

"A really, really bad injury. We can only thank his physio - if it wasn't for her, there wouldn't be a fight tonight."

Bakole reveals injury in camp

Saturday 28 October 2023 18:36 , Matt Verri

"Takam has experience. He's a tough guy and I respect him.

"But I want to thank everybody back in Scotland and the UK. I'm so happy to be part of this.

"Ask Tyson Fury, he will tell you. I had a bad injury in camp, I spent only two weeks at the gym. I have a big heart, I can't give up. That's why I have more weight."

Click here to read the full blog on The Evening Standard's website