Francis Ngannou, the reigning PFL SuperFights heavyweight champion, appears poised to return to the boxing ring before his next MMA bout, according to PFL owner Donn Davis. Davis believes Ngannou’s next venture will likely be a boxing match, given the significant opportunities presented to him in that arena. While Davis declined to provide specifics, citing Ngannou’s prerogative to make such announcements, he suggested that boxing holds more immediate appeal for Ngannou, with MMA likely taking a backseat, at least in the short term. Nevertheless, Davis anticipates Ngannou participating in one MMA fight in the PFL and one boxing match this year, catering to both sets of his fanbase. This trajectory aligns with the PFL’s support for Ngannou’s boxing aspirations, a key factor in his decision to sign with the organization over a potential return to the UFC.
Ngannou’s boxing journey has been a mixed bag so far. He embarked on his professional boxing career between October 2023 and March 2024, engaging in two high-profile bouts. The first, against then-champion Tyson Fury, saw Ngannou put in a surprisingly strong performance, even momentarily dropping Fury, before ultimately losing a close split decision. This encounter marked Fury’s last victory, adding a layer of intrigue to Ngannou’s near-upset. However, Ngannou’s second foray into boxing resulted in a harsh reality check. He was decisively knocked out by Anthony Joshua in a resounding defeat that underscored the stark differences between MMA and boxing.
Following these boxing experiences, Ngannou made his PFL debut under challenging circumstances, having recently suffered the tragic loss of his son. Despite this, he delivered a powerful performance, defeating Renan Ferreira to secure the SuperFights heavyweight title, reaffirming his prowess in the MMA world. The question now turns to his next boxing opponent and the “unbelievable” opportunities alluded to by Donn Davis. While a potential clash with Deontay Wilder was previously discussed, Wilder has reportedly moved on to a fight against Curtis Harper, seemingly removing him from contention.
The ideal scenario for Ngannou would be a fight against a recognizable name, a figure who would generate significant interest and offer a compelling challenge. However, identifying such an opponent poses a dilemma. While speculation may run rampant, there are few obvious candidates who would simultaneously provide a suitable test and enhance Ngannou’s boxing credibility. One unconventional option could be Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, whose popularity has surged following his involvement with the Jaxxon Podcast. Jackson is already rumored to be pursuing a boxing match against former UFC rival Rashad Evans, demonstrating his interest in the sport. While seemingly an outside-the-box choice, Jackson’s name recognition and fighting spirit could provide the kind of spectacle Ngannou needs.
The primary concern for Ngannou’s team will be avoiding matchups where he is a significant underdog. Given his 0-2 record in professional boxing, another loss could seriously damage his aspirations in the sport. While his performance against Fury was admirable, a third consecutive defeat would be difficult to overcome, regardless of the opponent. Therefore, Ngannou’s next opponent must strike a balance between offering a credible challenge and presenting a winnable fight, allowing him to build momentum and legitimize his boxing pursuits. This delicate balancing act will be crucial for Ngannou’s future in the sport.
The situation presents a unique challenge for Ngannou and his management. They must carefully consider the competitive landscape, weighing the risks and rewards of each potential opponent. A victory is essential to solidify Ngannou’s boxing credentials and pave the way for future high-profile matchups. However, a loss, especially a decisive one, could significantly derail his boxing ambitions. Therefore, the selection of his next opponent will be a critical decision, a strategic move that could determine the trajectory of his boxing career. Finding the right balance between marketability, competitiveness, and winnability will be paramount in maximizing Ngannou’s potential and ensuring his continued success in the boxing world.
