A terrible tragedy has struck Francis Ngannou and his family.
According to Cameroonian news outlet 237online.com, Ngannou’s 15-month-old son recently died suddenly. The cause of death is currently unknown. Ngannou issued a statement on social media that appeared to address the tragedy.
“If what we fight so hard to escape is ultimately what hurts us the most, then what is the purpose of life? Why is life so unfair and unforgiving? Why? Does life always get us what we don’t have?” Ngannou wrote. “I’m tired.”
What is the purpose of life if what we are desperately trying to run away from is what ultimately hurts us the most?
Why is life so unfair and unforgiving?
Why does life always get us what we don’t have?I’m fucking tired
— Francis Ngannou (@francis_ngannou)
April 29, 2024
Ngannou’s manager Markel Martin and Extreme Couture coach Eric Nikcik also expressed their condolences via social media on Monday.
Please respect [Francis
Ngannou] “I pray for relief for me and his family during this traumatic time,” Martin wrote to X.
Please respect @francis_ngannou
I join millions of others in praying for strength for his family and his family during this traumatic time 🙏🏾 🕊️
#perspective
#WhatReallyMatters
— Marquel Martin (@Marquel_Martin)
April 29, 2024
“It’s been a difficult few days. Words cannot express the pain we all feel for the Ngannou family during this time,” Nikcik wrote. “Please keep Francis and his family in your thoughts and may this remind you of the fragility of life. Say ‘I love you’ more often, tomorrow is guaranteed.” I’m not saying that.
It’s been a tough few days. Words cannot express the pain we all feel for the Ngannou family during this time. Please keep Francis and his family in your thoughts and may this remind you of the fragility of life. Say “I love you” more often, tomorrow is not guaranteed. ❤️ https://t.co/V6QVzbXKVi
— Eric Nikcik (@Eric_XCMMA)
April 29, 2024
Ngannou last competed in a boxing match against Anthony Joshua on March 8 in Saudi Arabia, losing by knockout in the second round in his second professional appearance. “The Predator” made headlines when he faced heavyweight champion Tyson Fury in a split decision in his Sweet Science debut in October of this year. The former UFC heavyweight champion is currently under contract to compete in MMA with the Professional Fighters League, but it is still unclear when he will make his debut.
— Francis Ngannou (@francis_ngannou)
April 29, 2024
Editor’s note: This item was updated at approximately 5:08 p.m. ET to accurately reflect Ngannou’s son’s age following a social media post by the fighter.
