Ngannou's Transition to Boxing

In a recent episode of the JAXXON PODCAST, Francis Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion, opened up about his journey into professional boxing. He discussed his decision to step away from MMA to pursue high-profile boxing matches, highlighting his bouts against top-tier boxers like Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. Ngannou emphasized the challenges of adapting to a new sport, noting the differences in technique and strategy required in the ring compared to the octagon. His determination to prove himself in boxing was evident as he shared insights into the rigorous training regimes he undertook to prepare for these monumental fights.

Reflecting on UFC Tenure

During the conversation, Ngannou reflected on his time with the UFC, where he rose to prominence as one of the most dominant heavyweights in the organization’s history. Around the 15:30 mark, he spoke candidly about the highs and lows of his career in the promotion, including his championship win and the subsequent contract disputes that led to his departure. He expressed mixed feelings about leaving the UFC, acknowledging the platform it provided while also addressing the frustrations over negotiations and fight opportunities that ultimately pushed him to explore other avenues.

The Elusive Jon Jones Matchup

A significant portion of the discussion, starting near the 25:10 timestamp, centered on the much-talked-about potential fight with Jon Jones, the current UFC heavyweight champion. Ngannou detailed the long-standing anticipation for this matchup, which never materialized during his UFC tenure. He shared his perspective on why the fight fell through, citing timing and organizational decisions as key factors. Despite the missed opportunity, Ngannou remains open to the possibility of facing Jones in the future, whether in the UFC or another promotion, underscoring his desire to test himself against one of the sport’s greatest fighters.

Future Aspirations in Combat Sports

Towards the latter part of the podcast, around the 40:22 point, Ngannou elaborated on his aspirations across both boxing and MMA. He expressed interest in continuing to compete in boxing while also eyeing a return to MMA under the right circumstances. His recent victory in the PFL, where he claimed the Super Fights title, was mentioned as a stepping stone for future endeavors. Ngannou’s focus remains on securing meaningful fights that challenge him and elevate his legacy, regardless of the combat discipline.