Key Takeaways:
- Francis Ngannou has signed with the PFL after leaving the UFC as its heavyweight champion.
- Ngannou’s crossover success in both MMA and boxing has given him numerous fight options.
- As Ngannou prepares for his PFL debut, the question arises: who should he fight first?
- Potential opponents for Ngannou in the PFL include Denis Goltsov, Renan Ferreira, and potentially Ryan Bader if the PFL acquires Bellator.
- There is massive public demand to see Ngannou box again, and potential opponents could include Tyson Fury and other top-ranked heavyweight boxers.
Potential MMA Opponents for Ngannou in the PFL
As Francis Ngannou prepares for his highly anticipated PFL debut in 2024, the heavyweight sensation is faced with a multitude of dangerous opponents within the MMA realm. Two fighters stand out as potential adversaries who would provide Ngannou with a thrilling challenge.
Denis Goltsov
A formidable Russian heavyweight, Denis Goltsov has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the PFL. With multiple appearances in the heavyweight final, Goltsov has showcased his prowess and finishing ability throughout his career. His high finish rate and relentless fighting style make Goltsov a dangerous opponent for Ngannou. A clash between these two powerhouses would undoubtedly ignite fireworks within the PFL.
Renan Ferreira
Renan Ferreira brings a unique set of skills and a flamboyant personality to the heavyweight division. Known for his physical attributes and spectacular backflip celebrations following first-round knockouts, Ferreira has captured the attention of fans and opponents alike. His explosive style combined with his ability to finish fights quickly would make him an intriguing matchup for Ngannou in the PFL.
Furthermore, there is a possibility that the PFL could acquire Bellator, opening the door for Ngannou to potentially face Ryan Bader, the reigning Bellator MMA heavyweight champion. Bader’s experience and skill set would provide Ngannou with a stern test as he seeks to make his mark in the world of MMA.
The table below summarizes the potential MMA opponents for Ngannou in the PFL:
| Opponent | Notable Attributes |
|---|---|
| Denis Goltsov | High finish rate, multiple PFL heavyweight finals appearances |
| Renan Ferreira | Explosive style, backflip celebrations, first-round knockout ability |
| Ryan Bader (if PFL acquires Bellator) | Reigning Bellator MMA heavyweight champion |
With these potential matchups on the horizon, Ngannou’s PFL debut promises to be a captivating event that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. Whether it’s taking on the dangerous Goltsov, the dynamic Ferreira, or even the established champion Bader, Ngannou’s journey in the PFL is set to make waves in the MMA world.
Potential Boxing Opponents for Ngannou
As Francis Ngannou continues to make waves in the world of combat sports, the demand for his next boxing matchup is at an all-time high. After his highly anticipated bout against Tyson Fury, fans are eager to see who Ngannou will face next in the squared circle. One potential option that stands out is a rematch with Fury himself. With their first encounter leaving fans wanting more, a second showdown could be a massive draw, especially considering Fury’s status as a top-10 heavyweight boxer.
Aside from a rematch with Fury, there are several other intriguing boxing matchups for Ngannou to consider. As his crossover success continues to captivate audiences, the possibility of facing other top-ranked heavyweight boxers becomes more enticing. Whether it’s a clash with the likes of Anthony Joshua or Deontay Wilder, these matchups would undoubtedly generate considerable interest and excitement.
Furthermore, Ngannou’s charisma and marketability open the door to unique crossover fights with prominent figures from the boxing world. Imagine a clash between Ngannou and a former champion turned promoter like Oscar De La Hoya or a legendary boxing icon like Mike Tyson. These matchups would not only capture the attention of combat sports enthusiasts but also attract a wider audience.
