Francis Ngannou's Transition to Boxing
The combat sports world is abuzz with the news of Francis Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion, embarking on a new journey in the realm of boxing. At 37 years old, Ngannou is setting his sights on conquering the boxing ring, expressing a fervent desire to take on some of the sport's most formidable contenders.
Upcoming Bout with Anthony Joshua
Ngannou's transition to boxing is marked by an upcoming high-profile match against none other than Anthony Joshua. This bout pits the former UFC champion against a seasoned boxer who has recently bounced back from adversity, having secured three victories following two losses to Oleksandr Usyk. The fight between Ngannou and Joshua is highly anticipated, promising to be a pivotal moment in Ngannou's boxing career.
Near Victory Over Tyson Fury
In what was nearly a monumental upset, Ngannou almost claimed victory over Tyson Fury in a non-title boxing match. This performance underscored Ngannou's potential in the boxing scene and has only fueled his ambition further. With his eyes firmly set on the prize, Ngannou has made it clear that he intends to challenge Deontay Wilder, another titan of the boxing world.
Deontay Wilder: A Potential Opponent
Wilder, known for his impressive record of 42 knockout wins, may have stumbled in a recent bout against Joseph Parker, but he remains a coveted opponent for any fighter looking to make a statement. Ngannou's interest in facing Wilder speaks volumes about his determination to establish himself among boxing's elite.
Reflections on MMA Career and Future Aspirations
Reflecting on his illustrious MMA career, Ngannou acknowledges reaching the pinnacle of success by becoming the UFC heavyweight champion in 2021. His title defense against Ciryl Gane cemented his legacy within the sport. However, Ngannou conveys a sense of completion with his achievements in mixed martial arts, stating, "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."
His pursuit of fresh challenges has led him to sign with the Professional Fighters League (PFL), although he has yet to debut in the organization. Despite this, there has been speculation about a potential matchup with Wilder under the PFL banner, highlighting the fluid nature of fight negotiations and the excitement surrounding Ngannou's next move.
Ngannou's Focus on Boxing
Throughout this transition, Ngannou has maintained a laser focus on his boxing ambitions. He reiterates his commitment to this new chapter, emphasizing, "It's a boxing career; it's not an MMA career now. We are here talking about my boxing career." His mention of top-tier boxers such as Fury, Joshua, and Wilder as primary targets encapsulates his drive to reach the apex of another combat sport.
Moreover, Ngannou's direct challenge to Wilder showcases his confidence and competitive spirit. "Wilder better get it together because I'm not done. I want that name on my record," declares Ngannou, signaling his readiness to face all comers in his quest for boxing glory.
A Dynamic Combat Sports Landscape
The landscape of combat sports is ever-changing, with fighters exploring opportunities across disciplines. Ngannou's switch from the octagon to the squared circle is a testament to the dynamic nature of these sports. As he succinctly puts it, "Two months ago, we were talking about fighting Deontay Wilder in the PFL [Professional Fighters League]. The landscape can change quickly. Everything is possible."
This openness to various possibilities has kept fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating Ngannou's next move. Whether it's in the PFL or a traditional boxing venue, one thing is certain: Francis Ngannou's combat sports journey continues to captivate audiences worldwide, and his foray into boxing adds another thrilling chapter to his storied career.