Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou is exploring new horizons in boxing after a series of notable bouts. His debut against Tyson Fury ended in a controversial split decision, followed by a knockout loss to Anthony Joshua. Despite these setbacks, Ngannou returned to MMA, winning the PFL Super Fights Heavyweight Championship. Now, he's setting his sights on several potential boxing opponents, including Deontay Wilder, Wladimir Klitschko, Derek Chisora, and Rico Verhoeven. However, not everyone supports his return to boxing, with former UFC champion Daniel Cormier expressing concerns about Ngannou's safety and strategy.
Potential Opponents Loom Large
Ngannou has identified several formidable contenders for his next boxing match. Deontay Wilder, known for his powerful punches, appears to be the frontrunner. A clash between these two heavyweights would likely result in an explosive KO. If this fight doesn't materialize, Ngannou is considering facing boxing legend Wladimir Klitschko, who retired in 2017 but may make a sensational comeback. Other options include perennial heavyweight contender Derek Chisora and kickboxing star Rico Verhoeven. Ngannou remains open to various possibilities, focusing on timing and strategic matchups.
The potential match with Wilder represents a significant challenge for Ngannou. Both fighters are renowned for their punching power, making the bout a high-stakes affair. Should this fight not come together, a match with Klitschko offers a unique opportunity for both fighters. The Ukrainian legend's retirement has left fans yearning for one last glimpse of his prowess. Alternatively, facing Chisora or Verhoeven could provide different dynamics, testing Ngannou's versatility and adaptability. Each option presents distinct challenges and opportunities, highlighting Ngannou's willingness to push boundaries.
Concerns from Within the MMA Community
Not all voices in the MMA community support Ngannou's continued pursuit of boxing. Former dual-weight UFC champion Daniel Cormier has voiced his concerns over Ngannou's recent performances. Cormier worries about the risks involved in another high-profile boxing match, especially given Ngannou's previous losses to Fury and Joshua. While acknowledging Ngannou's resilience and success in MMA, Cormier emphasizes the visual evidence of Ngannou's struggles in his last boxing bout, particularly against Joshua.
Cormier's apprehension stems from observing Ngannou's vulnerability during critical moments in his fights. He points out that while Ngannou typically dominates in MMA, his boxing matches have revealed weaknesses that could be exploited by skilled opponents like Wilder. Cormier urges Ngannou to carefully consider the implications of his next move, suggesting that financial incentives alone should not dictate his career decisions. Ultimately, Cormier's concern reflects a broader debate within the MMA community about the balance between ambition and safety in cross-sport ventures.