Francis Ngannou: From UFC Champion to Boxing Contender
Francis Ngannou, the formidable former UFC heavyweight champion, is making a significant career shift as he sets his sights on the world of boxing. At 37 years old, Ngannou is not content with resting on his laurels; instead, he is pursuing new challenges and aiming to leave an indelible mark in another combat sport.
Transition to Boxing
After dominating the UFC heavyweight division, Ngannou is now transitioning to professional boxing, where he has expressed a strong desire to compete against some of the top names in the sport. His ambition is clear, and it seems that a high-profile bout is on the horizon. Ngannou is scheduled to face off against Anthony Joshua, a renowned boxer who has recently secured three victories following two defeats at the hands of Oleksandr Usyk.
A Near Victory Over Fury
Ngannou's prowess is not untested in the boxing ring, as evidenced by his near victory over Tyson Fury in a non-title match. This performance has only fueled his hunger for more success, and he has openly stated his wish to fight Deontay Wilder, a boxer known for his impressive record of 42 knockout wins despite a loss to Joseph Parker.
Defending the UFC Title
While Ngannou's focus may have shifted, his achievements within the UFC remain remarkable. In 2021, he reached the pinnacle of MMA by capturing the heavyweight title. He successfully defended this title against Ciryl Gane, solidifying his status as a premier fighter in the organization.
PFL Signing and Potential Wilder Match
Ngannou's combat sports journey has taken another interesting turn with his signing to the Professional Fighters League (PFL). Although he has yet to step into the PFL cage, there has been speculation about a potential fight against Deontay Wilder under the PFL banner. This matchup would certainly captivate fans and add a compelling chapter to Ngannou's storied career.
Ngannou's Perspective on His Boxing Career
In reflecting on his transition, Ngannou has shared his thoughts on the move from MMA to boxing. "I'm here for the boxing career, and there I have a lot of challenges, a lot of names. For example, the top three guys that I've always had are Fury, Joshua, and Wilder," Ngannou remarked, emphasizing his commitment to achieving greatness in boxing.
He further clarified the distinction between his past and present career paths, stating, "It's a boxing career; it's not an MMA career now. We are here talking about my boxing career." This statement underscores a definitive shift in focus for the Cameroonian fighter, highlighting his determination to excel in a new arena.
Ngannou also issued a pointed message to Wilder, saying, "Wilder better get it together because I'm not done. I want that name on my record." These words convey a sense of unfinished business and a drive to compete against the best in the boxing world.
Despite his departure from MMA, Ngannou reflects on his time in the sport with a sense of accomplishment. "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," he explained. It's evident that Ngannou is seeking fresh experiences and milestones to conquer.
Always open to possibilities, Ngannou hinted at the ever-changing landscape of combat sports, "Two months ago, we were talking about fighting Deontay Wilder in the PFL [Professional Fighters League]. The landscape can change quickly. Everything is possible." With such a perspective, it is clear that Francis Ngannou's career, whether in the PFL or boxing, will be closely watched by fans eager to see what the powerhouse fighter does next.
In conclusion, Francis Ngannou's venture into boxing is more than just a change of discipline; it represents a relentless pursuit of new challenges and the determination to excel beyond the boundaries of one sport. As he prepares for his upcoming clash with Anthony Joshua, the combat sports community watches with bated breath, anticipating the impact of Ngannou's power and presence in the squared circle.