Curtis Blaydes believes Francis Ngannou‘s move to leave the UFC for a high-paying, high-profile boxing match will eventually pay off.
In January of this year, Francis Ngannou left the UFC to pursue a high-paying, high-profile boxing match. Three months later, the Cameroonian fighter still hasn’t found his next big opportunity, leaving many to question whether he made the right decision. However, heavyweight contender Curtis Blaydes disagrees with the route of skepticism and doubts the former champion’s departure from the UFC will result in anything but success.
During the recent UFC Vegas 71 Media Day, Blaydes shared his opinion on the matter, stating that “he only needs to have one fight where he earns like $5 million for it to be a win for him.” He also said that such an event could happen in four years, adding that he had faith Ngannou’s move would eventually prove fruitful. While some continue to criticize Ngannou’s decision to leave the UFC, it’s worth considering that the risk might pay off.
In January, UFC President Dana White released a statement about the protracted negotiations over Ngannou’s contract, explaining that the fighter rejected a deal that would have made him the highest-paid heavyweight fighter in UFC history. “We are going to release him from his contract,” said White, “and he can go wherever he wants and do whatever he wants.” The move led to widespread speculation about Ngannou’s future in fighting, and many wondered whether pursuing boxing would work out for him.
In the end, it remains to be seen whether Ngannou’s decision to leave the UFC will lead to success. Meanwhile, other UFC heavyweights, such as Blaydes, will continue to fight and build their careers within the promotion. But regardless of the outcome, it’s clear that fighters like Ngannou, who are willing to take risks and chart their own path, will continue to shape the world of combat sports.
Overall, while some are questioning Francis Ngannou’s decision to leave the UFC for boxing, Curtis Blaydes believes that such a move could eventually pay off for the former heavyweight champion. With a lucrative opportunity potentially only one bout away, Ngannou may have made the right decision in trying a new direction, even if it entails taking significant risks.