What’s next for Francis Ngannou after Tyson Fury defeat?

The Cameroonian MMA sensation nearly upset the undefeated British boxing champion

Francis Ngannou's boxing debut against Tyson Fury left fans buzzing with excitement. The Cameroonian MMA sensation nearly upset the undefeated British boxing champion, and now, the question on everyone's mind is: what's next for "The Predator"?

A rematch with Fury seems like the natural path forward. Ngannou's remarkable performance in their first bout demonstrated his boxing prowess. During the post-fight interview, Francis Ngannou revealed his desire for a second showdown. He spoke about remaining composed and gathering crucial data on Fury's tactics.

"Fury came out very fast…But I remained composed and aware of his speed. I didn't want to throw heavy punches because I might've missed, and if the fight went to the decision, I might have a hard time if I emptied my tank early."

Francis Ngannou even discussed how he experimented by switching to a southpaw stance and how it affected Fury's performance: "His jab from the southpaw position was inefficient; it was easy for me to slip and move to his left…Sometimes I would switch to southpaw not to fight, but to make him think and work out what to do next."

Having conquered the challenge of adapting to the boxing ring, Ngannou eagerly anticipates his next opponent: "As far as preference, I don't really have one…This experience was unique and will help me."

https://youtu.be/_86kQPXhWjQ

Is Anthony Joshua next?

If Fury opts out of a rematch, Deontay Wilder is another intriguing option. Wilder's manager, Shelly Finkel, expressed interest in a bout with Ngannou but noted that their primary focus remains Anthony Joshua.

"Deontay is interested in fighting Francis Ngannou…But his first choice is still Anthony Joshua."

https://twitter.com/ChuksEricE/status/1718574984795144594

Should Joshua choose not to engage with Wilder, Ngannou presents an enticing alternative. With neither boxer holding a championship, their clash would undoubtedly attract substantial attention.

PFL Heavyweight Championship Belt

Francis Ngannou has also expressed a desire to return to mixed martial arts. If he does, the Professional Fighters League (PFL) heavyweight championship could be his target. Currently, Renan Ferreira and Denis Goltsov are set to fight for the title. Ngannou's inclusion in the mix could elevate the stakes further.

https://twitter.com/PFLMMA/status/1719034740076896425

Moreover, Ngannou's reputation as "The Predator" comes with a hefty payday for his opponents, making it an offer few MMA fighters would turn down.

In the wake of his electrifying boxing debut, the world eagerly awaits Ngannou's next move. Whether it's a rematch with Fury, a clash with Wilder, or a return to MMA for a shot at the PFL heavyweight championship, "The Predator" is bound to keep fans on the edge of their seats.