Sports minister sends message to Ngannou after AJ defeat

Cameroon’s sports minister, Narcisse Mouelle Kombi, has sent a message of encouragement to Francis Ngannou following his defeat to Anthony Joshua on Saturday, March 9.

The Cameroonian had his second boxing match which quickly ended after he was knocked out in the second round.

“This second boxing fight was unfortunately not favourable. That’s sports and its uncertainty” Narcisse Moelle Kombi said.

“We know you will come back from this defeat stronger and turn it around with determination and vigor in your next fights” the sports minister added.

The former UFC heavyweight champion fought Tyson Fury in October, in a fascinating debut which he lost by a split decision. His entry into boxing was considered one of the most exciting in the sport yet.

Ngannou making history

Francis quickly became a household name in boxing just after his debut against reigning WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury in October.

In an unprecedented switch from the UFC and getting into a professional boxing ring after just over three months of training, the MMA fighter won the hearts of many, despite the loss against Fury in a fight which almost delivered one of the biggest upsets in boxing history.

Although Francis is still under the PFL which he joined in May 2023, and is expected to have his first fight in the second half of the year, the Cameroonian’s boxing career has so far captured fans who will want to see him back in the ring soon.