In the world of heavyweight boxing, power and speed often reign supreme. But, who’s the hardest hitter? Trainer Malik Scott doesn’t hesitate with his answer: Deontay Wilder. According to Scott, Wilder’s punches reach their target much faster than those of MMA crossover star, Francis Ngannou, mainly due to Wilder’s superior hand speed. He even likens Ngannou’s hand speed to that of George Foreman in his early 40s.
Scott, however, doesn’t mince his words when speaking about the upcoming bout between Ngannou and Tyson Fury. The 37-year-old Ngannou, despite his raw power, may struggle against the agility and movement of the undefeated 6'9" Fury. Adding to the debate, rumors suggest that knockdowns might not even be allowed in this bout, leading some to question the seriousness of the contest.
But it’s not just hand speed that makes Wilder stand out in Scott’s eyes. He describes Wilder as “the hardest puncher in the history of the sport”, claiming he combines the thudding power of Lennox Lewis with the speed of Wladimir Klitschko. On the other hand, Ngannou, known for his devastating power in MMA, might face challenges in the boxing ring, particularly given his slower punch delivery.
The highly anticipated Fury-Ngannou bout, while drawing a lot of attention, is also shrouded in mystery and skepticism. The fight’s hefty PPV price tag, coupled with concerns about its competitiveness, has led some to view it more as an entertainment spectacle than a genuine boxing match.
Regardless of the outcomes and debates, the clash between Fury and Ngannou is set to be one of the most watched events in combat sports this year. With legends like Mike Tyson showing support for Ngannou, the stage is set for an unforgettable night, even if the nature of the contest remains ambiguous.
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