We are all hooked on boxing, and since Tyson Fury has announced who his next opponent will be, it’s safe to say we’ll all be watching.
Francis Ngannou: who is he?
During his childhood, Francis Zavier Ngannou lived in poverty and had little formal education. He was born on September 5, 1986, in Batie, Cameroon. When he was six, his parents divorced and he was sent to live with his aunt.
Due to the family’s financial situation, he got his first job at the age of 10. In his village, several gangs approached him to join.
He chose to pursue boxing instead of using his father’s negative reputation as a street fighter.
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Ngannou began boxing at the age of 22 despite his family’s reservations.
After deciding to train in Paris, he was jailed for two months in Spain for illegally crossing the border.
After reaching Paris, he was homeless, without cash, and without friends. Fernand Lopez and the MMA factory were introduced to him by Francis Carmont.
Francis was able to train and sleep at the gym for free after Fernand persuaded him to try MMA.
Francis Ngannou left the UFC for what reason?
Despite making his UFC debut in December 2015, Ngannou departed as world champion in January 2023. As a result of his departure from UFC, Ngannou stated he wanted “freedom” rather than money.
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He said that “Regardless of how much money is in that contract, I am not free.”
“I have no power. All the power goes to you guys [the UFC], and I don’t want that to happen.”
“I really wished it could work out, My dream was always to be in the UFC. However, it’s a matter of principle. Money is a part of it but it’s not everything.”
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In the past, Francis had attempted to negotiate a deal with the UFC in which all fighters would receive health insurance.
As part of the deal, they were also supposed to have their own sponsorship deals, but those terms were rejected during contract negotiations.
According to Francis, some fighters are unable to pay their health insurance.
“Dignity and freedom are very important. Freedom and control over my destiny are what I need.”
He ended his reign as heavyweight champion after quitting the UFC.
Francis Ngannou’s record: what is it?
In addition to being the UFC Heavyweight Champion, Francis has successfully defended his title once.
Cameroon’s first UFC champion.
In addition to winning Performance of the Night six times, he holds the world record for the hardest punch.
Seven times he has won Knockout of the Year.
The following is Francis’ MMA record:
- There have been 12 knockout victories.
- By submission, four wins.
- By decision, one win.
- There were three losses by decision.
On October 28, 2023, Francis will face Tyson Fury in an exhibition match.
Saudi Arabia will host the event.
Net worth of Francis Ngannou’s:
According to GiveMeSport, Francis’ net worth is about $3million (£2.33million).
The amount has increased from $1.2 million (£93,000) in 2022.
