MMA fans have reacted to the possibility of Francis Ngannou joining ONE Championship.
After defending the UFC heavyweight title for the first time, Ngannou parted ways with the promotion to pursue better opportunities elsewhere. There has been talk of ’The Predator’ committing to professional boxing, but surely MMA promotions are making massive offers as well.
During a recent interview, Ngannou’s head coach, Eric Nicksick of Xtreme Couture, had this to say about the best options for his fighter outside of boxing:
“Outside of the UFC, to me, it’s probably ONE. Bellator has some names, of course, and I think you could make some matchups there. I think talent-wise, depth and talent, it’s ONE, in my opinion.”
One MMA source posted the quote on Instagram, and MMA fans filled the comment section, with some saying:
“Imagine Francis doing Muay Thai or kickboxing”
“I’ve been saying this for awhile ones roster can match the ufc roster p4p any day they have some real dawgs in that league some pride style rules too”
“I’d rather see Ngannou head to pro boxing for awhile. Boxing seems to be his passion. Let him go throw some hands and make bank.”
“I wouldn’t mind ngannou vs malykhin tbh..”
Although Francis Ngannou fighting for ONE would be must-see action, the 36-year-old is expected to make his professional boxing debut in 2023. Heavyweight champion Tyson Fury has shown interest in a hybrid fight against ‘The Predator,’ but nothing seems to be materializing. If the former UFC champion does sign with ONE, plenty of intriguing matchups await.
Who would be the best matchup for Francis Ngannou in ONE Championship?
Francis Ngannou would be a phenomenal addition to the growing ONE heavyweight division. When SportsKeeda posted the Eric Nicksick quote on Instagram, fans blew up the comment section by mentioning interim heavyweight champion Anatoly Malykhin.
Ngannou vs. Malykhin would feature arguably the two hardest-hitting heavyweights on the planet. Although the matchup would be easy to sell, it isn’t the only worthy opponent. Arjan Bhullar and Marcus Buchecha are available to test the grappling skills of ‘The Predator’.
The former UFC champion may or may not join ONE Championship, but if he’s looking to fight some of the best heavyweights available and compete in different disciplines, he knows where to go.