Former UFC champion Daniel Cormier has voiced his concerns about Francis Ngannou's return to boxing. Ngannou, known for his formidable presence in mixed martial arts, has recently announced plans to compete in the ring again. However, his past performances in boxing have been less than stellar, raising questions about his effectiveness outside the cage. Cormier highlights the significant challenges Ngannou faces, particularly against experienced boxers like Deontay Wilder, and expresses worry over the potential risks involved.

Evaluating Ngannou's Boxing Potential

Cormier acknowledges Ngannou's ability to generate substantial earnings through his fights but questions whether this financial success justifies the physical risks he takes. The former UFC champion points out that while Ngannou has shown impressive resilience, his previous losses in boxing highlight vulnerabilities that could be exploited by seasoned opponents. Cormier believes that Ngannou's prowess in MMA does not necessarily translate to the same level of dominance in boxing.

Ngannou's transition between disciplines is a point of interest. His performance in MMA remains commendable, as evidenced by his recent TKO victory over Renan Ferreira in the PFL. However, Cormier draws attention to the stark contrast between Ngannou's success in the octagon and his struggles in the ring. Specifically, Cormier references Ngannou's narrow loss to Tyson Fury and the more devastating knockout by Anthony Joshua. These outcomes suggest that Ngannou may face greater challenges in boxing, where techniques and strategies differ significantly from MMA. Cormier warns that Ngannou might find it difficult to adapt to the unique demands of boxing, especially when facing a powerful puncher like Wilder.

Concerns About Safety and Future Prospects

Cormier emphasizes the importance of safety in combat sports, particularly in boxing, where the risk of injury can be higher. He reflects on Ngannou's knockout loss to Joshua, noting that such incidents raise serious concerns about an athlete's well-being. Cormier questions whether the potential financial rewards are worth the physical toll that Ngannou might endure if he continues down this path. The former champion advises caution, suggesting that Ngannou should carefully consider the implications of his next move.

The vivid memory of Ngannou lying unconscious after his bout with Joshua serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers inherent in boxing. Cormier's comments reflect a deeper concern for Ngannou's long-term health and career prospects. While Ngannou has proven his mettle in MMA, Cormier urges him to think twice before venturing further into a sport where one wrong move could have lasting consequences. Ultimately, Cormier's advice underscores the need for balance between ambition and prudence in professional sports, especially when an athlete's safety is at stake.