Francis Ngannou lost his 18 month-old son this week.
The former UFC heavyweight champion, who recently dabbled in the “sweet science” after signing with PFL, released a statement on social media shortly after the tragic news was posted by 237online.com.
“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!?” Ngannou wrote. “Why is life so unfair and merciless? Why does life always take what we don’t have? I’m f—king tired.”
Ngannou, 37, has not competed since a knockout loss to Anthony Joshua in early March.
“Too soon to leave but yet he’s gone,” Ngannou continued. “My little boy, my mate, my partner Kobe was full of life and joy. Now, he’s laying without life. I shouted his name over and over but he’s not responding. I was my best self next to him and now I have no clue of who I am. Life is so unfair to hit us where it hurts the most. How do you deal with such a thing? How can you live with it? Please help me if you have an idea because I really don’t know what to do and how to deal with this.”
The Cameroonian received an outpouring of support from the combat sorts community.
“It’s been a heavy few days, words can’t express the pain we all feel for the Ngannou family during this time,” coach Erick Nicksick added. “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 cause of death has not been revealed.