Francis Ngannou In Talks With Deontay Wilder For 2-Fight Boxing Deal

Francis Ngannou had long been considered a top heavyweight fighter in the UFC. But in March 2021, he secured his place in UFC history by defeating Stipe Miocic and claiming the UFC Heavyweight Championship. Now that he has left the UFC already, the Nigerian-born fighter is seeking a two-fight deal with former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder.

As previously reported, Francis Ngannou officially parted ways with the UFC. Right after that, Dana White claimed that Ngannou turned down a contract that would have made history in the UFC.

In fact, Ngannou was offered Brock Lesnar-level of money. The UFC President also recently stated that Francis Ngannou is no longer welcome in the UFC after his exit from the promotion. Ngannou would then make it clear he could not care less about what Dana White had to say.

Many believed that Ngannou was going to venture into boxing and now it seems he is already making good on that promise. While speaking to TMZ Sports, Francis Ngannou revealed that he is currently in talks with Deontay Wilder for a two-fight deal. He added that he wants the fights to take place in Africa.

“We are looking into [Deontay Wilder] because he’s available. He’s ready for that. He’s very excited about [a fight with me]. He wants it. So, we are looking into that. That’s something I’m very excited about. We even discussed a potential one fight in Africa and one fight somewhere else. Why not even the two fights in Africa?”

Both fighters possess the devastating power to end a fight with just one punch. However, Francis Ngannou emphasizes that winning a fight isn’t just about throwing big punches and hoping for a knockout. He acknowledges that hitting an opponent with a clear shot requires proper technique and experience, which he is working hard to develop.

Ngannou recognizes that combat sports are not just about exchanging blows but involve a tactical game of avoiding hits while trying to land your own. As a result, he places great importance on the technical and strategic aspects of boxing. He is preparing himself to win fights not just through knockouts but also through decision victories, focusing on honing his skills in all areas of the sport.

I can knock everybody out. I have to be clear about something. To hit that person you have to get a clear shot which is more about technique and experience I don’t have. So, I’m very aware of that aspect.

“It’s not like ‘hit me, I hit you, and then we see who goes down.’ It’s a combat sport. Everybody trying not to get hit. I’m thinking more about the technique or the boxing side of it. The beauty of it. Then at the end, if you get an opportunity to connect then good. If not, I’m still expecting to win that fight in the decision so that’s how I’m preparing myself.”

We will have to wait and see whether Francis Ngannou and Deontay Wilder will be able to finalize a deal and duke it out inside the squared circle. Needless to say, fans would love to see the fight happen.

Are you excited to see Francis Ngannou vs Deontay Wilder? Do you think Ngannou can win? Sound off in the comments below!