Hey fight fans! Ever wondered about the complete fight history of the one and only Francis Ngannou? From his early days to becoming the baddest man on the planet, we're breaking down each bout in chronological order. Buckle up because this is going to be a wild ride!

Early Career and Ascent

Ngannou's journey to the top is nothing short of legendary. Transitioning from boxing to MMA, his raw power and determination quickly made him a force to be reckoned with. His initial fights were crucial in shaping his skills and building his confidence. Let's dive into the early fights that set the stage for his meteoric rise.

Beginning in MMA

Francis Ngannou's transition into mixed martial arts was a bold move, considering his late start in combat sports. His first professional fight occurred on November 30, 2013, at 100% Fight: Contenders 20 in Paris, France. Facing Rachid Benzina, Ngannou showcased the raw aggression and power that would become his trademarks. Though lacking polish, his intent was clear: to finish fights decisively. This debut marked the beginning of a journey characterized by rapid improvement and devastating knockouts. Benzina, an experienced fighter, provided a stern test for the newcomer, but Ngannou's sheer force proved too much, ending the bout in a first-round victory. This win was more than just a mark in the win column; it was a statement of Ngannou's potential and a glimpse into the star he would become.

Following his successful debut, Ngannou continued to hone his skills, fighting primarily in the French MMA scene. These early contests were critical for his development, allowing him to refine his technique and gain invaluable experience. Each fight presented new challenges, forcing Ngannou to adapt and evolve. He faced a variety of opponents with different styles, testing his ability to manage distance, defend takedowns, and capitalize on openings. These bouts were not always easy; they were grueling tests of endurance and mental fortitude. However, Ngannou's determination and relentless pursuit of improvement saw him through, solidifying his foundation for the bigger stages ahead. His time in the regional circuit taught him the importance of preparation, strategy, and the mental aspects of fighting, all of which would be crucial as he climbed the ranks.

Moving to the UFC

Francis Ngannou's move to the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) was a significant leap in his career, marking his arrival on the world stage. The UFC, the premier MMA organization, offered him the platform to showcase his talents to a global audience. His debut fight in the UFC was against Luis Henrique at UFC on Fox: dos Anjos vs. Cerrone on December 19, 2015. This fight was highly anticipated, with many curious to see how Ngannou's power would translate against higher-caliber competition. Henrique, a seasoned fighter, presented a solid challenge, but Ngannou's striking proved too powerful, resulting in a second-round knockout. This victory immediately placed Ngannou on the radar of fans and analysts alike, signaling the arrival of a new heavyweight contender. The win not only boosted his confidence but also validated his decision to dedicate himself fully to MMA. It was clear from this fight that Ngannou possessed the rare combination of raw power and developing technique, making him a dangerous threat to anyone in the division.

After his explosive debut, Ngannou continued to impress in the UFC, racking up a series of impressive victories. Each fight further solidified his reputation as a knockout artist with unparalleled power. His opponents included some of the toughest and most experienced fighters in the heavyweight division, but Ngannou dispatched them with relative ease. Bouts against Curtis Blaydes, Andrei Arlovski, and Alistair Overeem showcased his ability to adapt and dominate in various striking exchanges. These wins were not just demonstrations of power; they highlighted his improving technical skills and fight IQ. Ngannou's relentless aggression and willingness to engage made him a must-watch fighter, drawing in fans eager to witness his next spectacular finish. The momentum he built during this period propelled him up the rankings, setting the stage for title contention. Each victory added to his mystique, creating the aura of an unstoppable force within the heavyweight division.

The Path to the Championship

Ngannou's journey wasn't without its challenges. A loss to Stipe Miocic at UFC 220 exposed some vulnerabilities, but he bounced back stronger than ever, showcasing resilience and determination. Let's explore his championship journey.

Early UFC Fights and Knockout Streak

After joining the UFC, Francis Ngannou quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with, embarking on a knockout streak that sent shockwaves through the heavyweight division. His first victim was Luis Henrique at UFC on Fox 17, where Ngannou showcased his explosive power and finished the fight via knockout in the second round. This victory immediately put the division on notice, signaling the arrival of a new contender with immense potential. The sheer force and speed of Ngannou's strikes were unlike anything seen before, capturing the attention of fans and analysts alike.

Following his impressive debut, Ngannou continued his reign of terror with a series of devastating knockouts. He faced Curtis Blaydes at UFC Fight Night 86, a highly anticipated matchup against a fellow rising star. Ngannou wasted no time, overwhelming Blaydes with his relentless aggression and securing a TKO victory in the second round. This win further solidified his reputation as a knockout artist and moved him closer to the top of the division. The power Ngannou displayed was simply overwhelming, leaving no doubt about his ability to compete with the best in the world.

Next on Ngannou's hit list was UFC legend Andrei Arlovski, a former heavyweight champion known for his striking prowess. The fight took place at UFC on Fox 23, and Ngannou delivered one of the most brutal knockouts of his career. He landed a devastating punch that sent Arlovski crashing to the canvas, ending the fight in just over a minute. This victory was a statement, proving that Ngannou was not just a powerful puncher but also a skilled and calculated fighter. The speed and precision of his strikes were remarkable, showcasing his ability to capitalize on openings and finish fights decisively.

The climax of Ngannou's knockout streak came against Alistair Overeem at UFC 218, a fight that would become an instant classic. Overeem, a seasoned veteran with a wealth of experience, was considered one of the toughest matchups for Ngannou. However, Ngannou delivered a knockout that will be replayed for years to come. He uncorked a thunderous uppercut that lifted Overeem off his feet and sent him crashing to the canvas, resulting in a first-round knockout. This victory catapulted Ngannou into title contention, solidifying his status as the most dangerous man in the heavyweight division. The power and violence of the knockout were shocking, leaving no doubt about Ngannou's ability to compete for the championship.

First Title Shot Against Stipe Miocic

Francis Ngannou's first title shot against Stipe Miocic at UFC 220 was a highly anticipated clash between two of the heavyweight division's most formidable fighters. Miocic, the reigning champion, was known for his well-rounded skills and ability to adapt to any opponent. Ngannou, on the other hand, was riding a wave of momentum fueled by his devastating knockout power. The fight was billed as a classic striker versus grappler matchup, with many expecting Ngannou to try and end the fight early with a knockout.

However, Miocic had a different plan. He utilized his wrestling and grappling skills to neutralize Ngannou's power and control the fight. Miocic was able to take Ngannou down multiple times, tiring him out and preventing him from unleashing his signature strikes. Ngannou struggled to defend the takedowns and was visibly fatigued as the fight wore on. Miocic's game plan proved to be highly effective, frustrating Ngannou and nullifying his offensive capabilities.

As the fight progressed, Miocic continued to dominate, landing punches and elbows from top position. Ngannou showed incredible toughness, absorbing a significant amount of damage, but he was unable to mount any significant offense. Miocic's superior conditioning and wrestling skills allowed him to control the pace and dictate the terms of the fight. By the later rounds, Ngannou was exhausted and unable to offer much resistance.

In the end, Miocic won the fight via unanimous decision, successfully defending his heavyweight title. The loss was a humbling experience for Ngannou, exposing some vulnerabilities in his game and highlighting the importance of well-rounded skills in MMA. It was a valuable lesson for Ngannou, teaching him that raw power alone is not enough to win at the highest level. He needed to improve his wrestling, grappling, and conditioning to become a true champion.

Bouncing Back: Curtis Blaydes Rematch and Cain Velasquez Fight

Following his defeat to Stipe Miocic, Francis Ngannou faced a period of reflection and recalibration. The loss served as a crucial learning experience, highlighting areas in his game that needed improvement. Determined to bounce back stronger, Ngannou returned to the drawing board, focusing on honing his wrestling, grappling, and overall fight IQ. His journey back to the top began with a rematch against Curtis Blaydes at UFC Fight Night 141 in Beijing, China. This fight was an opportunity for Ngannou to showcase the improvements he had made and reassert his dominance in the heavyweight division.

In the rematch against Blaydes, Ngannou displayed a more patient and calculated approach. He didn't rush in recklessly, instead choosing to pick his shots and wait for the right opportunity. Blaydes, known for his wrestling prowess, attempted to take Ngannou down, but Ngannou's improved takedown defense proved to be a significant factor. He stuffed Blaydes' takedown attempts and kept the fight standing, where he could utilize his superior striking. Ngannou's patience paid off as he landed a powerful right hand that dropped Blaydes, securing a TKO victory in the first round. This win was a statement, proving that Ngannou had learned from his past mistakes and was ready to reclaim his place among the heavyweight elite. The victory not only avenged his previous loss to Blaydes but also demonstrated his growth as a fighter.

Ngannou's next challenge came against former heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez at UFC on ESPN 1 in Phoenix, Arizona. Velasquez, a legendary figure in the sport, was known for his relentless pace, wrestling, and ground-and-pound. This fight was seen as a significant test for Ngannou, as Velasquez's style presented a unique set of challenges. However, Ngannou once again showcased his explosive power and ability to finish fights quickly. In a stunning turn of events, Ngannou knocked out Velasquez in just 26 seconds of the first round. The knockout was controversial, as Velasquez appeared to injure his knee before the decisive blow, but the result stood. This victory was another significant step forward for Ngannou, solidifying his status as a top contender and demonstrating his ability to defeat even the most experienced and accomplished fighters. The win over Velasquez further fueled his confidence and set the stage for another title shot.

Becoming the Champion

After his loss to Miocic, Ngannou went on a four-fight win streak, including a stunning victory over Stipe in their rematch at UFC 260. This cemented his place as the heavyweight champion. Let's see how he claimed the throne.

Rematch with Stipe Miocic and Championship Win

The rematch between Francis Ngannou and Stipe Miocic at UFC 260 was one of the most highly anticipated fights in heavyweight history. After Miocic's dominant victory in their first encounter, Ngannou had spent years honing his skills and preparing for a second shot at the title. The rematch was seen as a chance for Ngannou to avenge his loss and prove that he had evolved into a more complete fighter. Miocic, on the other hand, was looking to cement his legacy as the greatest heavyweight of all time with another victory over Ngannou.

From the opening bell, it was clear that Ngannou had made significant improvements to his game. He was more patient, composed, and strategic than in their first fight. He stuffed Miocic's takedown attempts and kept the fight standing, where he could utilize his superior striking. Ngannou's jab was a key weapon, keeping Miocic at bay and setting up his power shots. Miocic, known for his durability and resilience, weathered the storm early on, but Ngannou's relentless pressure eventually took its toll.

In the second round, Ngannou unleashed a barrage of punches that rocked Miocic. Miocic, visibly hurt, tried to weather the storm, but Ngannou's relentless pressure was too much. Ngannou landed a devastating left hook that dropped Miocic, followed by a series of ground strikes that forced the referee to stop the fight. Ngannou had finally achieved his dream of becoming the UFC heavyweight champion. The victory was a testament to his hard work, dedication, and perseverance. It was a moment of redemption for Ngannou, proving that he had overcome his past failures and reached the pinnacle of the sport.

The win over Miocic was not just a personal triumph for Ngannou but also a historic moment for African MMA. Ngannou became the first African-born heavyweight champion in UFC history, inspiring countless aspiring fighters across the continent. His journey from humble beginnings in Cameroon to the top of the MMA world is a testament to the power of hard work and determination. Ngannou's victory resonated far beyond the world of sports, serving as a symbol of hope and inspiration for people around the globe.

Title Defense Against Ciryl Gane

Francis Ngannou's first and only title defense came against Ciryl Gane at UFC 270, a matchup that was filled with intrigue and storylines. Gane, a former training partner of Ngannou, was an undefeated rising star known for his technical striking, footwork, and fight IQ. The fight was billed as a clash of styles, with Ngannou's raw power pitted against Gane's finesse and precision. Adding to the drama, Ngannou and Gane's former coach, Fernand Lopez, was in Gane's corner, creating a sense of personal rivalry between the two camps.

In the early rounds, Gane utilized his movement and striking to keep Ngannou at bay, landing jabs and leg kicks while avoiding Ngannou's power shots. Ngannou appeared hesitant and struggled to close the distance, allowing Gane to dictate the pace of the fight. However, as the fight wore on, Ngannou began to implement a surprising strategy: wrestling. Despite being known primarily as a striker, Ngannou successfully took Gane down multiple times, controlling him on the ground and neutralizing his striking advantage.

Ngannou's wrestling proved to be a game-changer, as Gane struggled to defend the takedowns and escape from bottom position. Ngannou's top control and ground-and-pound were effective in wearing Gane down and preventing him from mounting any significant offense. In the later rounds, Ngannou's strength and physicality became increasingly apparent, as he dominated Gane in the grappling exchanges.

In the end, Ngannou won the fight via unanimous decision, successfully defending his heavyweight title. The victory was a testament to his versatility and adaptability, proving that he was more than just a knockout artist. Ngannou's ability to switch up his game plan and utilize wrestling to defeat a skilled striker like Gane showcased his growth as a fighter and his dedication to improving all aspects of his game. The win further solidified his status as the undisputed heavyweight champion and cemented his legacy as one of the greatest fighters in UFC history.

Leaving the UFC and Joining PFL

Ngannou's decision to leave the UFC and join the Professional Fighters League (PFL) was a monumental shift in the MMA landscape. Dissatisfied with the terms of his UFC contract and seeking greater autonomy over his career, Ngannou made the bold choice to explore free agency. His move to the PFL sent shockwaves through the industry, as he became one of the biggest names to ever leave the UFC in their prime.

Contract Disputes and Departure

Francis Ngannou's departure from the UFC was largely driven by a series of contract disputes and disagreements over the direction of his career. Ngannou felt that the UFC's contract terms were unfair, particularly regarding fighter pay, healthcare, and the ability to pursue other opportunities outside of MMA. He sought greater autonomy over his career, wanting the freedom to explore boxing matches and other ventures. However, the UFC was unwilling to meet his demands, leading to a stalemate in negotiations.

Ngannou's decision to leave the UFC was not an easy one, as it meant relinquishing the heavyweight title and walking away from the biggest stage in MMA. However, he felt that it was a necessary step to take in order to secure his future and have greater control over his career. He believed that he deserved to be compensated fairly for his contributions to the sport and wanted the freedom to pursue other opportunities without being restricted by the UFC's contract terms.

Joining PFL and Future Plans

After leaving the UFC, Francis Ngannou signed with the Professional Fighters League (PFL), a move that marked a new chapter in his career. The PFL offered Ngannou a unique opportunity to compete in their innovative season format, which features a regular season, playoffs, and a championship final. The PFL also promised Ngannou greater autonomy over his career, allowing him to pursue boxing matches and other ventures outside of MMA.

Ngannou's decision to join the PFL was motivated by a desire to compete in a fair and equitable environment, where fighters are valued and compensated fairly. He was also attracted to the PFL's commitment to innovation and its vision for the future of MMA. The PFL's season format appealed to Ngannou, as it provided a clear path to the championship and the opportunity to compete against a variety of opponents.

In addition to competing in the PFL's MMA division, Ngannou has also expressed interest in pursuing boxing matches against some of the biggest names in the sport. He has long been a fan of boxing and believes that he has the skills and power to compete at the highest level. Ngannou's potential foray into boxing has generated significant excitement among fans and analysts, who are eager to see how he would fare against top-tier boxers.

Conclusion

Francis Ngannou's fight journey is a testament to his incredible talent, hard work, and determination. From his humble beginnings to becoming a UFC champion and now venturing into the PFL and boxing, his career is filled with memorable moments and epic battles. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the sport, Ngannou's story is one that inspires. Keep following for more updates on "The Predator's" journey!