WBC create new special belt for Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou as Fury's heavyweight world title is not at stake
Michael Gray
Updated on April 07, 2026
The winner of Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou will walk away with the WBC's new 'Riyadh Champion' belt.
The sanctioning body opted not to sanction the contest for Fury's actual WBC heavyweight world title.
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Boxing's organisations all have their own rankings that determine which boxers are eligible to compete for their world titles.
As Ngannou has not had a professional boxing bout before, he is not in the WBC's rankings and therefore his fight with Fury has not been sanctioned to have the official WBC heavyweight world title at stake.
Instead, the WBC have done what they often do for major fights and created a special trophy belt to award to the winner.
This is called the 'Riyadh Champion' belt, not dissimilar to the 'Diriyah Champion' belt Tommy Fury won by beating Jake Paul in another region of Saudi Arabia earlier this year.
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The WBC's statement read: "The combatants will be rewarded with a unique and commemorative prize - the World Boxing Council (WBC) 'Riyadh Champion' belt.
"The custom-designed belt, exclusively created by the WBC for this contest, signifies the growing connection between Riyadh and the world of combat sports.
"It is also a testament to the city’s emerging prominence as a global sports and entertainment hub.
"The belt boasts a stunning design that seamlessly blends iconography of boxing and MMA.
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"A dark green backdrop signifying the national identity of Saudi Arabia, envelops the entire belt.
"'Riyadh Champion' is boldly emblazoned in elegant gold letters flecked with diamonds, symbolising the richness of spirit that boxing victory can bring.
"To highlight the unique nature of this combat sports event, octagon shapes, synonymous with MMA, have been intricately placed across its face.
"Positioned at the heart of the design, the flag Saudi Arabia pays tribute to the host city and nation, reflecting the warmth and hospitality for which The Kingdom is known. The Riyadh Season logo is also displayed prominently to celebrate this special season.
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"The belt pays tribute to the late Jose Sulaiman whose dream it was to establish a boxing in the Middle East, by including his image.
"The faces of Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou are also shown, together with WBC heavyweight legend and Ngannou’s trainer – Mike Tyson.
"The President of the WBC, Mauricio Sulaiman, arrived in Riyadh, proudly carrying the belt.
"Upon his arrival, he commented: 'It is my great honour to be here! It will be memorable.'
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"The Battle of the Baddest promises an intriguing moment in the history of combat sports, as two champions from different disciplines, both with immense punching power collide in battle.
"The 'Riyadh Champion' belt, with its striking designs and symbolism, ensures that the victor will be commemorated not only as a champion of their sport but also as a symbol of unity - as in sports, as in life."
