Francis Ngannou plans to continue competing in both boxing and MMA despite his loss to Tyson Fury, stating that he has the skills for both sports and intends to fulfill his deal with the PFL while still pursuing boxing opportunities.
Francis Ngannou showcased his remarkable versatility by going toe-to-toe with undefeated heavyweight champion Tyson Fury in his boxing debut. Despite losing a contentious split decision on the judges’ scorecards, Ngannou exceeded expectations and even dropped Fury in the third round. Speculation immediately arose that Ngannou would transition into boxing full-time, but the PFL star insists he’s not done with MMA just yet. He expressed his desire to do both and mentioned his commitment to the PFL.
Ngannou’s journey from Cameroon to France and his subsequent rise in MMA, including becoming the UFC heavyweight champion, is a testament to his ability to silence doubters. Although he fell short in the judges’ scoring against Fury, Ngannou firmly believes he won the fight and questions the judging process. He expressed his disappointment in how the decision could impact careers and was critical of the judges, suggesting they should be sanctioned.
The possibility of a rematch between Fury and Ngannou remains uncertain, as no rematch clause was in place. Fury has set his sights on a unification clash with Oleksandr Usyk, while Ngannou was planning his return to MMA and his PFL debut. However, Ngannou’s success against Fury has potentially altered his plans, providing new opportunities in the lineal heavyweight champion category. He confirmed his upcoming fight in February or March, indicating that it could be in either the cage or the ring, as he is exploring what setup works best for him.
Despite not achieving the victory he sought against Fury, Ngannou gained valuable experience from his first 10-round boxing match. He acknowledges the lessons learned and remains determined to use this experience to prepare for future fights. Ngannou’s hunger to prove himself and his belief in his own abilities remain intact, as he acknowledges that although wounded, he still has the potential to bite back stronger.
In conclusion, Ngannou’s performance against Fury showcased his ability to excel in both boxing and MMA. While there is uncertainty regarding future matchups and the direction of his career, Ngannou’s determination and confidence remain unwavering as he looks ahead to his next fight and the opportunities that lie ahead.