Former UFC Champ Francis Ngannou Mourns Tragic Loss of 15-Month-Old Son Kobe

Photo: Instagram/Francis Ngannou

Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou took to social media on Monday to announce the heartbreaking news of his 15-month-old son Kobe's passing. 

Ngannou expressed his devastation, describing Kobe as his "little boy, mate, [and] partner" who was "full of life and joy." The circumstances surrounding Kobe's death remain unclear.

The announcement came after Ngannou's earlier cryptic post on social media, prompting an outpouring of support from fans and his coach, Eric Nicksick. Nicksick urged followers to keep Ngannou and his family in their thoughts during this difficult time.

Photo: Instagram/Francis Ngannou

Ngannou, 37, rose to prominence in the UFC, capturing the heavyweight championship with a stunning knockout victory over Stipe Miocic in 2021. Despite successfully defending his title against Ciryl Gane at UFC 270, Ngannou did not renew his contract with the UFC and has not competed in the Octagon since.

Transitioning to boxing, Ngannou faced off against WBC and lineal heavyweight champion Tyson Fury in a highly anticipated bout last October. Despite his loss by split decision, Ngannou impressed many with his performance, including knocking Fury down during the fight. 


However, his boxing journey took another turn in March when he suffered a knockout defeat to former unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua.

Hailing from Cameroon, Ngannou's journey from childhood poverty to the heights of mixed martial arts and boxing success has been remarkable. As he navigates this personal tragedy, Ngannou has not competed since his bout with Joshua in March, focusing instead on coping with the loss of his beloved son.

Read Next: Jeremy Sochan Leads Spurs' Optimistic Charge Towards Bright Future

Source: Yahoo Sports 

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