UFC president reacts to Tyson Fury calling out Francis Ngannou

Dana White has admitted he isn't surprised that Tyson Fury wants to fight Francis Ngannou.

The two heavyweight champions of combat sports have teased fans about a crossover fight.

Ngannou, 35, is set to become a free agent after his upcoming UFC fight against Ciryl Gane in the main event at UFC 270 this weekend.

Speculation has increased about the possibility since Fury asked fans if they would like him to fight Ngannou with 'boxing rules' and 'UFC gloves'.

White, the UFC president, has responded to Fury's comments on social media.

Speaking at a press conference, White said: "Listen man, these guys - none of this surprises me.

"It's like these boxing guys need guys to fight, you know what I mean? That's what it shows.

And yeah, no, it doesn't surprise me at all."

Fury is yet to confirm his next opponent but his stock is at an all-time high after winning his Las Vegas trilogy bout against Deontay Wilder in October.

A fight with Dillian Whyte is a possibility but due to the delay, Fury could be set to look elsewhere and Andy Ruiz Jr. is a possibility.

Ngannou is hopeful of facing Fury, even if 2022 is unlikely.

He told Stake: "I don't know exactly when Tyson and I will fight, but I think maybe some time in 2023.

"I am still under contract with UFC so I don't know right now the state of my situation or how it will play out, but I will say it will probably happen at some point.

"It is definitely something I want to do, but we don't have control over it right now.

"I know it will be very tough when we fight. Not only am I coming from a distant sport, but I am testing myself against one of the best, if not the best, boxer ever.

"Obviously, I am confident, but it will be something totally different and new for me.

"Fury has obviously proven he can last a very long time in a fight - but I am sure I will throw some bombs at him that he will not have experienced before."