Francis Ngannou does not think too highly of Junior dos Santos’ grappling prowess.
Former heavyweight champion Junior dos Santos may be known for his boxing, but he is also a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. “Cigano” received this distinction in December 2012 from Yuri Carlton, right before his rematch against Cain Velasquez at UFC 155.
The 35-year-old Dos Santos is now facing former title challenger Francis Ngannou at a UFC on ESPN show on June 29th. And so far, “The Predator” has zero respect for Dos Santos’ grappling prowess.
“First of all, I don’t believe that jiu-jitsu black belt,” Ngannou told MMA Junkie during a recent media scrum. “I don’t believe that Dos Santos jiu-jitsu black belt. I don’t know where he’s from, but I don’t believe that. And I don’t mind that at all.
“But you never know what some fighter is going to come out with. I always keep thinking maybe he’ll try some wrestling or a takedown, but it’s not his comfort zone. I don’t know. He might try everything. But the most important is I’m prepared for every little thing.”
In terms of boxing, however, Ngannou believes he has the edge.
“I think I’m the best boxer in the heavyweight division, and I think I’m going to prove it on the 29th,” he said. “I think he’s a very good boxer, but I’ll have to show that I’m better than him.”
UFC on ESPN: Ngannou vs. Dos Santos takes place at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota.