Francis Ngannou made his Professional Fighters League (PFL) debut earlier today (Sat., Oct. 19, 2024) at the historic “Battle of the Giants” pay-per-view (PPV) event opposite Renan Ferreira in the headlining bout in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It was “The Predator’s” first mixed martial arts (MMA) fight in two years since parting ways with Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
Ngannou flipped the script early on, shooting and securing a massive takedown in round one. Undeterred, Ferreira attempted multiple takedowns while he was under the former UFC Heavyweight champion. But it was all for naught because once Ferreira gave up his back, “The Predator” unloaded a barrage of heavy strikes that forced a stoppage in round one.
It was a huge win for Ngannou in more ways than one. Prior to facing Ferreira, “The Predator” took some time to dabble the boxing world. What ensued were two massive matchups against two of the very best Heavyweights in the sport, Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. And though neither fight went his way — losing a split-decision to Fury before getting knocked out by Joshua — Ngannou was able to fulfill a lifelong dream.
A month later, however, Ngannou suffered a terrible tragedy after his 15-month old son, Kobe, passed away suddenly, a heartbreaking loss no parent should ever have to endure. During his grieving, Ngannou admitted the retirement crossed his mind, but vowed to come back stronger in honor of his son.
And that promise was fulfilled in Riyadh.
After his win, Ngannou gave his customary post-fight speech and was rightfully overcome with emotion when talking about his late son, and reiterated that the fight and victory were all for him.
“I only think about my son, Kobe. I only took this fight because of him. I hope they can remember his name because without Kobe we wouldn’t have been here tonight, I wouldn’t have fought. So, thank you everyone of coming,” he said.
“It was tough, it has been tough. The training camp was tough, the past two days were tough. I was full of emotion and I couldn’t do anything without thinking about him. I was trying to be strong for my son, keep moving, but it is hard, man, it is hard,” he said while trying to hold back his tears.
“I just want to say, please remember my son Kobe. I dedicate this to him. This is for Kobe,” he concluded.
With another piece of MMA hardware around his waist, Ngannou did not commit to his next combat move. For now, “The Predator” will soak up the huge win and return to his family after a successful return to his first combat love.
For PFL: “Battle of the Giants” results, coverage, and highlights, click HERE.