Boxing Hall of Famer Floyd Mayweather wants to help guide Francis Ngannou as he begins his pro boxing career.
Ngannou split with the UFC earlier this year following a long, heated contract dispute with the promotion. He was stripped of the UFC heavyweight title, which was later won by Jon Jones at UFC 285.
Ngannou remains a free agent three months later and is planning on making his boxing debut his combat return. Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder are a few big-name opponents on the table for his first appearance in the ring.
Mayweather wants to help Ngannou navigate some of the treacherous waters that come with working with boxing promoters.
Floyd Mayweather Wants ‘In’ On Francis Ngannou Negotiations
During a recent interview with BetOnline, Mayweather made an offer to Ngannou ahead of his boxing debut.
“I would love to work with (Ngannou),” Mayweather said. “I would love to sign him to Mayweather Promotions. He’s a very skilled guy, unbelievable, and if he wants to fight one of the top heavyweight guys, he should do it.”
Mayweather went on to elaborate on Francis Ngannou’s potential in boxing.
“Absolutely,” Mayweather said. “With his size, strength and power – anything can happen. With his power and his toughness, he can make some noise in the heavyweight division.”
Ngannou has also been in talks with the PFL and ONE Championship for a return to MMA. A return to the UFC is unlikely, especially after UFC President Dana White’s latest comments.
Francis Ngannou hasn’t fought since a win over Ciryl Gane at UFC 270. A fight with Jones was expected to take place next, but the fight never came to fruition.
Mayweather retired from professional boxing in 2017 after his ‘money fight’ with Conor McGregor. But, he remains active in exhibitions, recently facing YouTubers and MMA veterans.
Floyd Mayweather knows a thing or two about the boxing business and helps mentor fighters such as Gervonta Davis. Mayweather Promotions has signed some of the top up-and-coming talents in the sport in recent years.
Francis Ngannou could benefit from Mayweather’s guidance, as his value arguably dips the longer his free agency takes place. Floyd Mayweather might be the presence Ngannou needs to seal a deal.