The former UFC champion is seemingly not done with the sport of boxing.
Despite back-to-back losses in the ring, Francis Ngannou still has an interest in competing in boxing. As PFL chairman Donn Davis provided an update on Ngannou’s career, he stated that he expects the fighter to return to the ring in 2025.
Ngannou made his boxing debuts with one of the most difficult tests possible when he took on then-heavyweight champion Tyson Fury.
However, despite being a huge underdog, the bout would end in a split decision, with Ngannou even scoring a knockdown.
His second boxing match would not go well, however, as Ngannou would suffer three knockdowns in a stoppage loss to Anthony Joshua.
Although he currently boasts a 0-2 record, Ngannou has shown he has the skills in the ring to compete with notable fighters. With this in mind, here are some of the opponents Ngannou could face in a return to boxing.
Tyson Fury
Even though Fury announced his retirement at the start of 2025, many feel a return to the ring could be possible for the ‘Gypsy King’.
Should Fury wish to return and not face the likes of Joshua, Ngannou could be a suitable opponent.
There was considerable interest when the two met for the first time, even though there was an apparent skill gap between the pair.
Although Fury would likely be a large favorite again, many people believed the former MMA champion won the bout, adding intrigue to a rematch.
Deontay Wilder
Deontay Wilder may not be perceived in the same light as he once was, but he is still a notable name in the heavyweight division.
In what would be a clash of two of the hardest punches of all time, Wilder vs Ngannou would have fans on the edge of their seats.
It is understood that Wilder has not retired from the sport yet, despite his TKO loss to Zhilei Zhang in June 2024. To make his return in 2025, Ngannou is a big name that could offer him a fresh and exciting matchup.
Wilder was also named an opponent by PFL chairman Davis as an ideal option for Ngannou’s boxing return.
Derek Chisora
Despite being 41 years old, Derek Chisora has found new form in the twilight of his career. With a career-best performance over Joe Joyce, followed by a dominant win over Otto Wallin, Chisora has shown that he still has elite skills.
Chisora has mentioned names such as Daniel Dubois and Joshua as future opponents, however, Ngannou could be another option for the heavyweight.
With a limited amount of fights left in his career, Ngannou could offer a huge name to add to his resume, as Chisora looks to see out an incredible boxing journey.
Martin Bakole
Although Martin Bakole was unable to shock the world on short notice against Joseph Parker, he is still among the division’s elite.
Having campaigned for a fight in Africa against Anthony Joshua, Bakole could get his home country showdown with Ngannou.
The former UFC champion has also been vocal about wanting to compete in Africa, meaning a matchup between the Congolese and Cameroonian fighters could be a worthy event.
Zhilei Zhang
Another matchup between two huge power punchers would be Zhang vs Ngannou.
Zhang’s last outing would see him suffer a TKO loss to Agit Kabayel on February 22nd, as the Chinese fighter was stopped for the first time in his career.
Also with a limited number of fights left in his career, Zhang may also look to add a big name to his resume.
An interesting style matchup, the two massive heavyweights would likely put on an explosive affair if they were to fight.