Francis Ngannou: From MMA Champion to Boxing Contender
Francis Ngannou, the powerhouse former UFC heavyweight champion, is embarking on a new journey within the combat sports world. At 37 years of age, Ngannou has set his sights on the squared circle, aiming to make an impact in the realm of professional boxing.
After dominating the octagon with his ferocious power and remarkable athleticism, Ngannou is poised to step into the ring against some of boxing's elite fighters. He has expressed a fervent desire to test his mettle against top-tier boxers, with a particular interest in three notable names that stand out as potential adversaries: Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, and Deontay Wilder.
A New Challenge Ahead
Ngannou's transition from mixed martial arts to boxing signifies more than just a change of sport—it represents a fresh challenge and a renewed sense of purpose. "In my MMA career, I got to the point that is everyone's dream. I was MMA champion. There are some great fights to do in MMA, but there's not a new challenge, something exciting in MMA," Ngannou stated, reflecting on his illustrious tenure in the UFC.
The Cameroonian-born fighter's foray into boxing is already generating significant buzz, particularly with the announcement of an upcoming bout against British heavyweight Anthony Joshua. This fight promises to be a compelling clash of styles and power, as both men have demonstrated their knockout capabilities on numerous occasions.
Joshua's Road to Redemption
Anthony Joshua, a two-time unified heavyweight champion, has been rebuilding his career following back-to-back losses to Oleksandr Usyk. With three consecutive victories since those defeats, Joshua has reasserted himself as a formidable force in the heavyweight division. A matchup against Ngannou would not only offer a unique spectacle but also serve as a testament to Joshua's willingness to take on all challengers.
Near Victory Over The Gypsy King
Ngannou's boxing credentials were nearly solidified in a non-title match with Tyson Fury, where he showcased his ability to compete at the highest level. While he did not secure the win, the performance was a clear indication that Ngannou's power transcends the confines of MMA and poses a legitimate threat to established boxers.
Wilder in the Crosshairs
Another potential opponent in Ngannou's crosshairs is the hard-hitting American, Deontay Wilder. Despite a recent loss to Joseph Parker, Wilder's record boasts an impressive 42 knockouts. Ngannou's ambition to add Wilder's name to his list of conquests is palpable, as he remarked, "Wilder better get it together because I'm not done. I want that name on my record."
The possibility of this fight materializing in the Professional Fighters League (PFL) had been a topic of discussion. "Two months ago, we were talking about fighting Deontay Wilder in the PFL. The landscape can change quickly. Everything is possible," Ngannou revealed, hinting at the dynamic nature of fight negotiations and the ever-evolving opportunities within combat sports.
Legacy in the Octagon
Ngannou's legacy in MMA is firmly established, having reached the pinnacle of success by capturing the UFC heavyweight title in 2021. His reign included a successful title defense against Ciryl Gane, cementing his status as one of the most dominant champions in the history of the division.
Despite signing with the PFL, Ngannou has yet to debut in the league, leaving fans anticipating his return to competition. However, his focus remains squarely on boxing, where he aims to replicate the same level of achievement he attained in MMA. "It's a boxing career; it's not an MMA career now. We are here talking about my boxing career," Ngannou emphasized, making it clear that his future lies within the ropes of a boxing ring.
As Francis Ngannou transitions from the UFC's octagon to the boxing ring, the sports world watches with keen interest. Will the former heavyweight champion find the same success with gloves as he did with four-ounce mitts? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—Ngannou's pursuit of greatness continues unabated, and the boxing community must prepare for the arrival of a new contender.