Featured Image Credit: Francis Ngannou/ESPN/PA
Topics: The Rock, Francis Ngannou, Mike Tyson, Boxing, UFC
Nasir Jabbar
Topics: The Rock, Francis Ngannou, Mike Tyson, Boxing, UFC
Dwayne Johnson has compared UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou to boxing icon Mike Tyson, pinpointing the exact attribute both men share.
Ngannou has made a name for himself in the MMA world as a ferocious puncher having stopped his last FIVE opponents in the UFC.
He destroyed Stipe Miocic to claim the UFC heavyweight title, with 'The Predator' making the first defence of his crown against interim champion Ciryl Gane tonight at UFC 270.
And ahead of his anticipated return to action, the 35-year-old has been likened to 'Iron' Mike for his intimidation and power.
Johnson - affectionately known as 'The Rock' - gave Ngannou the ultimate compliment in combats sports by likening him to the former world heavyweight champion boxer.
Speaking about the UFC heavyweight championship clash between Ngannou and Gane, the former WWE legend said via Sportskeeda: "UFC fighters, they step into that iconic Octagon and they look to establish their dominance, they look to establish their legacy and some become champions and some don’t.
"This [Ngannou vs. Gane] is a very unique matchup with two very unique individuals and I think a win here will start to establish their legacy."
On Ngannou, he added: "You have Francis who carries with him this intimidation that is second to none.
"It reminds me of, Dana and I have talked about this before, it almost reminds you of Mike Tyson back in the day where he just, he steps to the octagon with such incredible intimidation and power."
Ngannou makes his first UFC appearance since March 2021 following a dispute with the promotion.
He's been embroiled in a contract row with White as he fights out his current deal at UFC 270.
The French-Cameroonian has talked up a boxing bout against Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder ahead of his UFC fight against former teammate Gane.