Ngannou after UFC 260: This belt ‘is a symbol of hope and dedication’

Francis Ngannou has reflected on his heavyweight title win against Stipe Miocic this past weekend.

Francis Ngannou’s heavyweight title win this past weekend at UFC 260 means a lot more than just a belt.

Ngannou defeated Stipe Miocic by second-round KO in the main event of UFC 260. “The Predator” showed major improvements from his defeat to Miocic in 2018 as he continued his dominant run in the heavyweight division.

Coming from poverty in Cameroon and facing many hardships as he migrated to Europe, Ngannoy released a statement reflecting on his recent win.

“Here we are. CHAMP,” Ngannou wrote. Finally got a hold of the belt & this is going to be for a while.”

“This right here is more than a belt, but a symbol of hope and dedication, it shows how far you can go if you believe in you and doesn’t matter how far behind you are, doesn’t matter how many obstacles you meet along the road (and believe me they can be countless), you can overcome them and reach your goal because the only limit that you have is YOU and nothing else.”

Ngannou revealed at the UFC 260 post-fight press conference that he plans to put his newly won UFC title on display somewhere in Cameroon to inspire local children.

“I want to thank you (fans, family, etc…) all from the bottom of my heart for helping me carry on this dream even when I feel exhausted, for motivating me when I feel tired and to push me when I’m stuck. We’re all tied in this together. Thank you to Stipe Miocic for being a great champion, it was & will always been an honor to share the Octagon with you.”

As for what’s next for Ngannou is unclear at the moment. All signs pointed towards Ngannou making his first title defense against Jon Jones, but another pay dispute between the UFC and ‘Bones’ has left that fight in question. UFC president Dana White said a rematch with Derrick Lewis “is the fight to make” next for Ngannou.