Francis Ngannou, former UFC heavyweight champion, is mourning the loss of his 15-month old son Kobe, with the exact circumstances of the tragedy still unknown.
Francis Ngannou, it seems, is living every parent’s worst nightmare. Cameroonian news outlet 237 Online broke the news on Monday. His 15-month old son, Kobe, is no more. The details? Still fuzzy. But MMA Fighting sources have confirmed the tragic news.
Ngannou hasn’t spoken publicly yet. But he did take to social media, his grief palpable. “What’s the purpose of life if what we’re fighting tooth and nail to get away from is what finally hit us the hardest!? Why is life so unfair and merciless? Why does life always take what we don’t have? I’m fucking tired,” he posted.
Eric Nicksick, Ngannou’s head coach, and manager Marquel Martin also shared their condolences online. “It’s been a heavy few days, words can’t express the pain we all feel for the Ngannou family during this time. Please keep Francis and his family in your heart, and may this be a reminder of the fragility of life. Say “I love you,” more often, tomorrow isn’t guaranteed,” Nicksick wrote.
Martin echoed, “Please respect Francis Ngannou and his family during this traumatic time. I along with millions others will be praying for their strength. #perspective #WhatReallyMatters.”
Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion, was a big deal in combat sports last year. He transitioned to boxing and did pretty well. He nearly upset Tyson Fury, the lineal heavyweight champion, in his professional debut. Even knocked the undefeated boxer down during their 10-round fight. His second outing? Not so much. Anthony Joshua knocked him out in the second round of their fight in March.
Ngannou’s efforts in MMA and boxing have made him a beloved figure. And now, faced with this tragedy, the MMA world is mourning with him. “I am so sorry to hear of your loss Francis, my prayers are with you and your family at this time,” tweeted Conor McGregor.
Others, like Cris Cyborg, Terrance McKinney, Adrian Yañez, and Billy Quarantillo, also shared their condolences on Twitter.
Damon Martin contributed to this report.