Former UFC heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic has issued his first public feedback on the tragic dying of Francis Ngannou’s son.
Miocic hasn’t fought since a knockout loss to Ngannou for the UFC heavyweight title at UFC 260. Since then, he’s waited a full year-plus for present titleholder Jon Jones, who he’s anticipated to face later this 12 months.
Miocic and Ngannou have fought twice, splitting the 2 matchups. He defeated Ngannou by unanimous choice at UFC 220 in what was on the time his third consecutive profitable title protection.
After his back-to-back boxing fights in current months, Ngannou skilled an unimaginable tragedy. His younger son, 15-month-old Kobe, handed away as a result of undisclosed causes.
Whereas Miocic and Ngannou’s fights had been fiercely aggressive, their careers can be linked perpetually, and Miocic despatched a cultured message to Ngannou.
Stipe Miocic sends stylish message to Francis Ngannou after son’s dying
Throughout a current interview with CBS Sports activities‘ Shakiel Mahjouri, Miocic reacted to Ngannou’s son’s dying.
“That’s horrible, I want him nothing however one of the best. I don’t even wish to speak about it, actually, as a result of I’ve two youngsters of my very own,” Miocic mentioned. “Offers me nervousness desirous about it, I really feel horrible for him. I don’t know what he’s going by way of…however I’m with him. Ideas and prayers are with him.”
Ngannou hasn’t fought since a loss to Anthony Joshua within the boxing ring in March. He signed with the Skilled Fighters League final 12 months after a protracted contract dispute with the UFC.
Ngannou’s timeframe for a return to preventing is unsure, though he’s publically mentioned this subsequent struggle is devoted to his son. He may probably return to MMA after a two-and-a-half-year hiatus.
Miocic and Ngannou loved one of many largest rivalries in UFC heavyweight historical past with every man incomes one win apiece. Out and in of the cage, the respect between them stays palpable.