Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou confirmed the death of his 15-month-old son in a heartbreaking social media post this morning.
Ngannou’s confirmation on social media came after rumours swirled in Cameroon on Monday that young Kobe Ngannou, who was born on 13 January 2023, had unexpectedly died. Hours before that emotional statement, The Predator had tweeted a cryptic message that left his fans and followers wondering what was wrong.
“What’s the purpose of life if what we’re fighting tooth and nail to get away from is what finally hit us the hardest!? Why is life so unfair and merciless? Why does life always take what we don’t have? I’m f***ing tired,” Ngannou shared to his socials.
Fighters such as Conor McGregor were quick to offer their condolences to Ngannou. Meanwhile, his coach Eric Nicksick wrote: “It’s been a heavy few days, words can’t express the pain we all feel for the Ngannou family during this time. Please keep Francis and his family in your heart, and may this be a reminder of the fragility of life. Say ‘I love you’ more often, tomorrow isn’t guaranteed.”
The tragic event is another challenge in the former UFC champion’s difficult life. Ngannou endured a poor childhood where he had to work at the age of 10 to help support his family. His life changed for the better when he moved to Paris to train mixed martial arts.
Using his God-given physical gifts, he blossomed into one of the most dangerous fighters in MMA history, knocking out one opponent after another with his otherworldly punching power. Ngannou reached the peak when he captured the UFC heavyweight title by knocking out Stipe Miocic at UFC 260.
The French-Cameroonian fighter left the UFC after he was unable to agree to a new contract with the promotion. Francis tested the professional boxing waters and landed back-to-back fights with heavyweight champions Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. Ngannou put on a valiant effort in a losing effort to Fury but was sensationally knocked out by Joshua in his most recent bout last 8 March 2024.
Ngannou reportedly earned at least $20 million USD (~$30.5 million AUD) during the Joshua fight alone. But just as when everyone thought that Francis’ lifelong hard work had led him to success, tragedy struck. Now he has to pick himself up once again and rise above adversity.