Francis Ngannou's Boxing Ambitions
The combat sports world is abuzz with the news of Francis Ngannou's transition from the Octagon to the squared circle. The former UFC heavyweight champion, at 37 years old, is setting his sights on a new challenge within the realm of professional boxing. With an upcoming bout against Anthony Joshua, Ngannou is not just dipping his toes in the boxing waters; he's diving in headfirst against some of the sport's elite.
A New Chapter Against Anthony Joshua
Ngannou's move to boxing isn't just about changing disciplines; it's about testing himself against the best. His forthcoming match with Anthony Joshua is a testament to this desire. Joshua, a household name in boxing, has bounced back with three consecutive wins after suffering two defeats at the hands of Oleksandr Usyk. This matchup promises fireworks as both fighters are known for their knockout power and aggressive fighting styles.
Nearly Besting Tyson Fury
While still relatively new to professional boxing, Ngannou has already shown that he can hold his own against top-tier boxers. He nearly secured a victory in a non-title bout with Tyson Fury, who is considered one of the best heavyweights in boxing today. This performance has only fueled Ngannou's confidence and hunger for more high-profile boxing matches.
The Wilder Factor
One name that Ngannou is particularly eager to add to his list of opponents is Deontay Wilder. Known for his devastating punching power, Wilder has accumulated 42 knockout victories in his career. Despite a loss to Joseph Parker, Wilder remains a formidable force in the heavyweight division. Ngannou has made it clear that he wants to face Wilder, seeing it as an opportunity to solidify his boxing credentials and leave an indelible mark on the sport.
From MMA Champion to Boxing Contender
It was in 2021 when Ngannou reached the pinnacle of mixed martial arts by capturing the UFC heavyweight title. His reign included a successful defense against Ciryl Gane, proving his dominance in the division. However, Ngannou felt that he had achieved all he could in MMA and yearned for a fresh challenge, leading to his pivot towards boxing.
Despite signing with the Professional Fighters League (PFL), Ngannou has yet to compete under their banner. Discussions about him fighting Wilder in the PFL surfaced, showcasing the fluid nature of combat sports matchmaking and the potential for crossover bouts that can capture the imagination of fight fans worldwide.
Ngannou's Perspective on His Career Shift
In reflecting on his career change, Ngannou has been candid about his motivations and aspirations. "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," he stated, underscoring his intent to take on the best in the business.
He further emphasized the distinction between his past and present, saying, "It's a boxing career; it's not an MMA career now. We are here talking about my boxing career." This shift in focus from MMA to boxing marks a significant turning point for Ngannou, who achieved everything he set out to do in the UFC.
With a tone of determination, Ngannou also addressed Wilder directly: "Wilder better get it together because I'm not done. I want that name on my record." It's a bold statement from someone who has conquered one combat sport and is now aiming to make waves in another.
Lastly, Ngannou reflected on the ever-changing landscape of combat sports and the opportunities it presents. "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 said. He concluded with an open mind about the future: "Two months ago, we were talking about fighting Deontay Wilder in the PFL [Professional Fighters League]. The landscape can change quickly. Everything is possible."
As Francis Ngannou prepares to step into the ring with Anthony Joshua, the combat sports community watches with bated breath. Will Ngannou's power translate effectively into boxing? Can he rise through the ranks and make good on his promise to shake up the heavyweight division? One thing is certain: Ngannou's journey from the UFC octagon to the boxing ring is a narrative filled with anticipation and the potential for historic moments in the annals