Francis Ngannou, the ex-UFC heavyweight champion, has not yet announced his next steps after returning to MMA last October.
Despite some reports disputing the end of Francis Ngannou`s PFL contract, it seems likely that “The Predator” will compete in a different arena for his next fight.
Ngannou has appeared to favor a boxing match with Deontay Wilder, especially after his defeat to Anthony Joshua a year prior.
While Ngannou has mentioned other potential boxing opponents, including a possible return of Wladimir Klitschko, there are alternative options beyond the top names in heavyweight boxing.
Besides a second MMA fight with the PFL, the powerful striker has also considered a crossover super fight with the renowned “King of Kickboxing,” Rico Verhoeven.
Rico Verhoeven Provides Optimistic Update on Potential Fight with Francis Ngannou
Francis Ngannou has already faced top heavyweights in both boxing and MMA, but what about competing under kickboxing rules?
Rico Verhoeven, holding the GLORY heavyweight title for over a decade, stands as one of the most dominant champions in combat sports history.
With an impressive record of 12 consecutive title defenses, along with numerous tournament and Grand Prix victories, the 35-year-old Verhoeven is a legend in kickboxing, now seeking fresh and thrilling challenges.
GLORY recently revealed a massive 32-man “Last Heavyweight Standing” tournament scheduled throughout the year, but Verhoeven`s name was noticeably absent from the participant list.
While he might join the tournament later or be reserved to face the eventual winner, this omission could also indicate that the promotion is planning something extraordinary for their champion.
Both Francis Ngannou and Rico Verhoeven have previously discussed the possibility of a crossover fight, potentially under boxing rules.
By venturing outside their primary combat sports, they could meet in a unique showdown, a first of its kind.
Verhoeven recently spoke on The Ariel Helwani Show, offering an update on the potential fight.
“It`s definitely on my radar, and I recently saw an interview where Francis also expressed interest. Talks are ongoing, and I`m excited because it represents a significant and novel challenge, unlike anything seen before. We`ve witnessed boxing versus MMA matchups, but I believe our disciplines are more closely aligned, making this a very exciting prospect.”
While discussions don`t guarantee a fight, Verhoeven is optimistic, suggesting this is more than just wishful thinking.
“We are in discussions with various organizations. As Marshall Zelaznik mentioned, there`s interest from different parties in staging this fight. I`d say we`re halfway there. The initial interest and desire to see this fight is certainly present, and that`s where we are.”
Rico Verhoeven: A Compelling Matchup for Ngannou
Undeniably, a fight against a leading heavyweight boxer would likely generate more attention and financial reward for Francis Ngannou.
However, a boxing match with Rico Verhoeven, as Verhoeven himself pointed out, would offer fans a completely new and unprecedented spectacle.
Verhoeven is accustomed to facing formidable knockout artists, but his technique and resilience have consistently prevailed throughout his championship reign.
Considering Ngannou`s performance against Tyson Fury, he cannot be underestimated in a boxing ring. While Verhoeven has faced powerful punchers, Francis Ngannou represents a different level of knockout power.
