In the squared circle of combat sports, Francis Ngannou has announced his next bout, transitioning from the sweet science of boxing back to the octagon of MMA after his recent clash with Anthony Joshua. The former UFC heavyweight champion, absent from MMA since his victory over Ciryl Gane in 2022, departed the UFC amid contract disputes, opting for a deal with the PFL that granted him a foray into the world of boxing.
Ngannou’s pugilistic debut against Tyson Fury showcased his mettle, despite a narrow loss by split decision. His thunderous blows sent the WBC Heavyweight Champion reeling, earning him acclaim from boxing pundits, with Carl Froch denouncing the decision as a travesty of justice. The performance earned Ngannou a top-10 ranking by the WBC and secured him a showdown with Joshua on March 8.
A triumph against Joshua would propel Ngannou closer to the pinnacle of the heavyweight division, positioning him for a shot at the undisputed title against the victor of the impending Fury versus Usyk showdown. Yet, Ngannou remains resolutely focused on his return to the MMA arena.
The PFL CEO, Peter Murray, disclosed Ngannou’s imminent return to the MMA fold, pitting him against the winner of the clash between Renan Ferreira and Ryan Bader, champions from PFL and Bellator, respectively. Ngannou himself affirmed his intentions, declaring his readiness to face either champion and underscoring his own championship pedigree.
While Ngannou’s path back to MMA supremacy is fraught with formidable adversaries, including the current PFL and Bellator champions, the stage is set for a monumental showdown in Saudi Arabia. Despite Dana White’s reluctance to engage in further dealings with Ngannou, the allure of the burgeoning MMA scene in Saudi Arabia may yet pave the way for a blockbuster bout.
As Ngannou continues his ascent, his journey epitomizes the convergence of talent, ambition, and opportunity in the dynamic realm of combat sports, captivating audiences worldwide and ensuring his legacy as a true icon of the fight game.
