Francis Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion and current PFL titleholder, is setting his sights on a potential boxing match with Deontay Wilder. Following his recent transition from MMA to boxing, Ngannou has expressed a strong interest in squaring off against one of boxing’s most formidable heavyweights.
Ngannou’s Boxing Ambitions: A New Challenge Awaits
In his recent appearance on the Super Moscato Show, Francis Ngannou revealed his growing inclination toward boxing, especially after recovering from a knee surgery. His enthusiasm for the sport has been fueled by his experiences against top-tier opponents like Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, despite suffering defeats. “I’ve been leaning towards boxing for a while now. It presents a new challenge, and I’m eager to prove myself against the best,” Ngannou stated.
Ngannou’s potential clash with Deontay Wilder, a former WBC heavyweight champion, has generated significant buzz. While no official announcement has been made, Ngannou confirmed that discussions have taken place, highlighting the possibility of a high-profile encounter. “Deontay Wilder is definitely on the radar. We’ve had some conversations, and it seems more likely than ever,” Ngannou mentioned, hinting at what could be a blockbuster event.
Wilder’s Legacy: A Formidable Opponent
Deontay Wilder, known for his explosive power and impressive knockout record, remains a formidable presence in the heavyweight division. With a professional career launched in 2008 and a stint as the WBC heavyweight champion from 2015 to 2020, Wilder’s reputation precedes him. His recent loss to Zhilei Zhang in June 2024 hasn’t deterred his standing as a viable contender for Ngannou.
Ngannou, who has consistently demonstrated his prowess in the octagon, appears undeterred by Wilder’s accolades. “Facing Wilder would be a pinnacle moment in my boxing journey. Everyone poses a challenge, but I’m confident in my ability to compete at the highest level,” Ngannou asserted, emphasizing his readiness for what he considers the “summit of summits.”
The Saudi Connection: Facilitating Big Fights
The involvement of Saudi investors in the boxing scene has been pivotal, simplifying negotiations and expediting the arrangement of high-profile bouts. Ngannou acknowledged the swiftness of these negotiations, stating, “Saudi Arabia has become a key player in organizing these events. Deals that used to take months now only take a few days to finalize.”
There is speculation that Saudi investment might pave the way for a championship that allows for cross-discipline matches, potentially setting the stage for encounters between MMA fighters and boxers. Ngannou’s interest in such opportunities highlights his ambition to explore new horizons in combat sports.
Future Prospects and Retirement Plans
At 38, Ngannou is contemplating the trajectory of his career. While he remains focused on upcoming challenges, he has hinted at retiring around the age of 40. “I’ve always thought I’d hang up my gloves by the time I reach 40. There are still a few fights I want to take on before I step away,” Ngannou shared, leaving fans eager to see what lies ahead.
As discussions continue, the potential Ngannou-Wilder matchup promises to be a thrilling spectacle, captivating audiences worldwide. Whether Ngannou will achieve his boxing victory remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: his journey is far from over, and the combat sports world will be watching closely.
