When is Francis Ngannou’s next fight?


When is Francis Ngannou’s next fight?

Derrick Lewis, Francis Ngannou, Jon Jones

Francis Ngannou is one of the most dangerous fighters on the planet, in fact he is considered by many, even by fellow fighters as the scariest man in the UFC. With his unbelievable punching power and steel-like physique, he steamrolls any opponent who comes at him. He is now the UFC heavyweight champion, a belt he won recently after beating heavyweight great Stipe Miocic via. knockout at UFC 260.

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After his victory a match largely talked about was Francis Ngannou vs Jon Jones. Jones had recently, (9 months ago) switched to the heavyweight division in a bid to pursue legacy and greatness.

The light-heavyweight GOAT was largely tipped to face Ngannou on his heavyweight debut, but a payment-war with UFC President Dana White, saw the contest go to the hands of Derrick Lewis instead. Hence, who exactly is Ngannou going to face in his next fight?

It looks like Jon Jones is loosing his foothold in Francis Ngannou fight

Jon Jones and Dana White
Jon Jones and Dana White

Despite being the frontrunner to face Ngannou, after the latter’s victory against Stipe Miocic at UFC 260, Jones made things difficult for him by demanding a massive fight purse. White revealed in an episode of the Bill Simmons’ podcast that, Jones had wanted $30 million to fight Ngannou. White said that it was not possible to pay someone that much in an organization like UFC.

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White therefore presented Jones with another offer. Face Miocic first, and take things from there. However, ‘Bones’ refused it in no time, and was hellbent on facing the Cameroonian. But that would be possible only if Jones lowers his demands and meets up with Dana White, and comes up with a solution.

Derrick Lewis now seems to be the front runner to face Francis Ngannou

Derrick Lewis and Francis Ngannou
Derrick Lewis and Francis Ngannou at UFC 226

Lewis and Ngannou have already fought once. In what is considered as one of the most boring contests of all time, the pair hardly landed strikes when they faced off at UFC 226. Lewis eventually won the snooze-fest via. unanimous decision.

‘The Black Beast’ is now the number 2 ranked heavyweight contender, and has all the rights to face the Cameroonian. In fact the UFC have already named him as Ngannou’s next opponent. Even during the recent post-fight recap at UFC Fight Night 188, White revealed that Ngannou vs Lewis was in the works for UFC 265 in August.

Therefore, only if Jon Jones lowers his demand, drastic enough to meet White’s requirements, he would probably fight Ngannou. If not there isn’t any surprise in Derrick Lewis taking on Francis Ngannou next!

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