Ready for Riyadh: Francis Ngannou arrives in Saudi Arabia
By Cormac O’Donell
Francis Ngannou touched down in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia earlier this week. He travelled light, carrying with him only a resolute will, fearsome punching power and Big-Time boxing in his luggage.
Upon arrival at King Khalid International Airport, he was met with the unique hospitality of the Saudis who presented him with flowers, some Arabic tea and a hearty welcome.
Speaking to the gathered press – he offered his initial thoughts on the unfolding adventure:
“It’s such an amazing opportunity to be participating in a global event such as Riyadh Season.
I can’t express my gratitude for the opportunity that has been given to us by His Excellency
Mr. Turki Al-Sheikh (advisor to the Royal Court and Chairman of General Entertainment Authority).
I’m very excited to be a part of it, and you know, it’s an honour.
My promise for this fight is simple: we are going to war.
We are going to give them (the fans) the best opportunity, the best experience.
We are taking everything in the ring and going out the ring with nothing.”
Today on Wednesday, Francis shared footage on Instagram of his preliminary Riyadh experience.
He showed the view from his penthouse premises, surveying the expansion of the city. Staying at the top is both a literal and figurative aim for Ngannou.
The theme of royalty has been the focal point of the media promotion for his upcoming contest with Tyson Fury; which is quite fitting, given that it is being staged in The Kingdom. Francis offered his social media fans a glimpse of his private training facility in Riyadh – complete with a full size boxing ring. The gym is decked out from top to bottom in giant “Battle of the Baddest” iconography; with colossal images of Francis as a King and the phrase “Only One will Reign” emblazoned across the wall.
Francis Ngannou has set himself some lofty goals for this year. Making his professional debut as a boxer, he is jumping in at the deep end fighting WBC Heavyweight, Tyson Fury.
Whilst Tyson’s WBC Championship is not being contested, the two will fight it out for a one of a kind prize in the “Riyadh Champion” Commemorative Belt.
Francis’ capacity to dream big, makes him a perfect fit to be fighting in Riyadh. Like him; the city is also working to make a global impact and make the impossible – possible.
Francis Ngannou will fight Tyson Fury as part of Riyadh Season on October 28th in the Boulevard Hall, Riyadh. Tickets are currently on sale here: https://webook.com/en-US/events/battle-of-the-baddest
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