For many Cameroonians, Francis Ngannou, the former MMA world champion, is undoubtedly the athlete of the year 2023. A year marked by his historic fight which pitted him against Tyson Fury. The “Predator”, despite the defeat, impressed during this confrontation which received exceptional media coverage.
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With our correspondent in Yaoundé, Joel Wadem
For Francis Ngannou, the image of 2023 will certainly be this incredible fight which he opposed on October 28 to Tyson Fury in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. For the “Battle of the baddest”, in front of 20,000 spectators, the former mixed martial arts champion fought his first fight in English boxing against the reigning heavyweight champion. For the Briton, undefeated in 34 professional fights, this duel was like a training session.
Older (37 years old versus 35 years old), smaller (1.93m versus 2.06m) and logically less experienced, Francis Ngannou was faced with a hell of a challenge: bringing down the immense Tyson Fury. Despite the defeat, Ngannou impressed by achieving the feat of knocking out Fury in the third round.
Decorated by President Paul Biya
Thanks to this historic fight, Ngannou, who symbolizes audacity, endurance and perseverance for young people, was carried in triumph to Cameroon. While he was named sportsman of the year by several newspapers, President Paul Biya awarded him the medal of Commander of the Order of Valor in November.
The “Predator” has become the best ambassador of MMA in Cameroon: through his interpersonal skills, a federation dedicated to the discipline was created in May. At the same time, Ngannou built arenas in Douala and Batié for the development and practice of combat sports. These actions, coupled with his simplicity, make Francis Ngannou one of Cameroonians’ favorite athletes.