Title: Breaking Down Francis Ngannou's Latest Fight Opportunity
It's unlikely you'll witness Francis Ngannou's next title defense inside the PFL SmartCage. Instead, the PFL SuperFights heavyweight champ might be eyeing a boxing comeback, according to PFL owner Donn Davis. In an interview with MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Davis hinted, "If I had to guess, I'd think boxing would be first given the opportunities he has." However, it's Ngannou's call to share about his plans.
The PFL's greenlighting of Ngannou's professional boxing aspirations was a significant draw for him to join the PFL. Between October 2023 and March 2024, Ngannou participated in two boxing matches, exhibiting impressive resilience despite suffering losses. First, he almost astonished the world by dropping then-champion Tyson Fury and almost clinched a split decision win. Unfortunately, in March, Ngannou fell short against Anthony Joshua in a devastating knockout.
Fueled by a personal tragedy involving the loss of his son, Ngannou eventually made his PFL debut and emerged victorious against Renan Ferreira to claim the SuperFights title in October 2024.
Given Ngannou's past boxing accomplishments, what "unbelievable" opportunities could await him in the ring?
Initially, the notion of Ngannou facing Deontay Wilder surfaced. Yet, Wilder seems more focused on battling journeyman Curtis Harper with the objective of bouncing back from consecutive losses against Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang.
So who could be Ngannou's next boxing opponent, with enough appeal to captivate fans?
Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, who gained notoriety through his Jaxxon Podcast appearances, is a potential candidate. Rumors suggest Jackson is poised for a boxing bout against longtime UFC rival and former light heavyweight champ Rashad Evans.
Rampage might seem like an unconventional pick, but in the quest for a notable opponent, Ngannou's corner might have no choice but to explore this unorthodox opportunity.
Another defeat could overshadow Ngannou's impressive boxing resume, making it challenging to maintain respectability in that domain. Though he came close against Fury, another loss would set him back, placing a 0-3 record on his professional boxing slate. Following such a setback, earning credibility within the boxing realm would be a significant undertaking.
[1] MMA Fighting[2] ESPN[3] BoxingScene[4] SportsKeeda
Deontay Wilder's next fight is still uncertain, but there's speculation that he might focus on facing journeyman Curtis Harper first. On the other hand, Francis Ngannou's next fight could be within the realm of boxing, given his interest in a boxing comeback and various opportunities available to him. In a potential matchup, Ngannou might face Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, who is rumored to be challenging his longtime UFC rival, Rashad Evans, in a boxing bout.
