On Saturday night, Francis Ngannou achieved the improbable by facing Tyson Fury in a boxing match that resulted in a contentious split decision in Riyadh. Although “The Predator” lost by the slightest of margins, he emerged as the victor in the eyes of many observers. Ngannou managed to knock Fury to the canvas in the third round, exerted control throughout the fight, and left the match without any visible injuries.
It was truly remarkable to witness Ngannou fulfil his promises. This is an individual who originated from the sand mines of Cameroon, undertook a journey across Africa to create a new life for himself in France, and ultimately became the UFC heavyweight champion. He even successfully navigated his way out of his UFC contract to secure a $10 million deal. Now, he has gone the distance with the reigning heavyweight champion in boxing.
Yes you did! Legend. You’re a boxer man, stay in boxing and hone those skills!
— Migel Tissera (@migtissera) October 29, 2023
However, there is one drawback to this remarkable achievement: it likely signifies the conclusion of his career in mixed martial arts. Fans must know that boxing at the top level pays much more than MMA does. Ngannou has experienced the same, as his debut boxing match became the biggest payday of his career by a long shot.
This is why fans believe Francis Ngannou is here to stay when it comes to his boxing career. “This man has very high intelligence, a solid chin, and power in both hands. The boxing world has a new king,” wrote a fan on X. “And I think he said Francis $10 million, which is amazing”, wrote another fan.
Another fan urged Ngannou to stay in boxing after his top performance against Fury, “Legend. You’re a boxer, man; stay in boxing and hone those skills!” So, fans want the MMA heavyweight to continue boxing as of now, but the fighter has some other plans.
Francis Ngannou reveals his future plans for MMA
Despite giving one of the toughest fights to Tyson Fury in his debut inside the ring, the Cameroonian is not ready to bid adieu to mixed martial arts as he has signed a contract with PFL after leaving UFC. “Combination! I can do both. Nothing stops me from doing both. If I have the skills for both of them, why not? As for right now, I have a deal with PFL”, said the former UFC champion to ESPN.
Ngannou also said that boxing was never a one-fight plan for him. “I never intended to step over and do fight and go out. That wasn’t the plan.”- he added. He believes he is here for the long game. However, his first priority is to step into the cage as per his contract with PFL. Nevertheless, “The Predator” has established himself as a genuine powerhouse in the realm of heavyweight boxing.
He’s proved today that he is a formidable presence in two different sports and a tremendous athlete. This kind of achievement at this level is unprecedented, and it’s imperative that we continue to watch and gauge just how far he can push the boundaries of his success.