Tyson Fury's gives open challenge to Francis Ngannou in a statement of intent.

Boxing's WBC heavyweight world champion has called out the ex-UFC heavyweight champion, who was stripped of his title earlier this week, allowing him to pursue other opportunities.

Ngannou has stated that he is open to a move into boxing in 2023, but it is unclear what he will do next.

"Francis Ngannou, I know you're out of contract with the UFC," Fury said in his message sent via SecondsOut.

“Wanna earn some big boy money? Come see the Gypsy King.

“Let’s do a big, big fight for the baddest MF on the planet.

“Let’s kick it up spicy, in a cage, four-ounce gloves, under Queensberry [boxing rules], and let’s have a badass referee like Iron Mike Tyson.

“Did I just sell that to the world?”

In April, Fury is expected to face WBA, IBF, and WBO champion Oleksandr Usyk for the undisputed heavyweight world titles.

As things currently stand, this appears to be his next fight.

"If the contract with Usyk for the fight of the century in boxing doesn't get signed next, then we'll do the Ngannou fight," Fury said.

“We will know quite soon I think.

“If these fellas don’t come up and sign the contract for the big fight, then we’re moving on to greener pastures.”