The recent heavyweight showdown between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury has sparked a plethora of opinions, none more noteworthy than that of former MMA champion Francis Ngannou. In their second bout, held in Saudi Arabia, Usyk successfully defended his WBC, WBA, and WBO titles against Fury, winning by unanimous decision. This outcome was particularly striking as Usyk had previously outpointed Fury in a split-decision just seven months prior. However, Ngannou, despite acknowledging Usyk’s victory, expressed reservations about the scorecards, suggesting that the match was much closer than the official tally indicated.
In an interview following the fight, Ngannou articulated his view that the decision was not a clear-cut one. He stated, “The fight was pretty close. I would have scored the fight closer than that.” This sentiment reflects a broader discourse in boxing regarding how subjective interpretations of a match can lead to differing opinions on the outcome. While unanimously awarded 116-112 by all three judges, the more analytical AI scoring had Usyk winning by a larger margin of 118-112, a verdict that did not sit well with Ngannou.
He pointedly critiqued the use of artificial intelligence in scoring, emphasizing that “AI might be intelligent, but AI doesn’t understand the sport properly.” This raises vital questions about the role of technology in what is a deeply human—and often subjective—sport. Ngannou’s assertion that the AI operated on data it couldn’t entirely interpret is a reminder of the limitations of algorithmic assessments when judged against human experiences and instincts.
Francis Ngannou’s involvement in the boxing world is especially pertinent given his own recent bouts. After suffering a controversial decision loss to Fury in their October 2023 match, Ngannou faced Anthony Joshua, ultimately succumbing to a knockout in the second round. His experiences have undoubtedly shaped his perspective on the boxing scoring system. Perhaps more than anyone else, Ngannou understands the fine margins that dictate victory and defeat; thus, his incensed reaction to Usyk’s scoring echoes the frustrations many fighters feel when judging does not reflect the reality of the fight.
As for Ngannou’s future in boxing, he has not ruled out the prospect of facing Fury again. He expressed a desire to avenge his previous loss, stating, “What I want to see now is Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou.” This determination illustrates the competitive spirit that drives boxers to face their challenges head-on, irrespective of past defeats. Ngannou, though still navigating the complex landscape of professional boxing, remains formidable and intent on making his mark.
Ngannou’s critical view of the recent Usyk-Fury bout represents a crucial reminder of the subjective nature of sports judging. As technology takes a more prominent role in the analysis of fights, balancing its insights with human judgment will be paramount—allowing the sport’s rich nuances to shine through in its assessment and appreciation.