Former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder has recently shown keen interest to face MMA heavyweight star Francis Ngannou.
Wilder made an appearance backstage at PFL 4 and appeared on the broadcast. Naturally, Wilder’s participation implies that the PFL is at least attempting to set up a match with Francis Ngannou for a boxing match.
The former boxing champion considered taking up MMA and giving Ngannou a boxing match in exchange for a MMA bout. Backstage, Wilder told that he is “99 percent” on his road to securing his next bout. It is anticipated to take place at the end of the year against fellow former champion Anthony Joshua.
However, he was also aware of the likelihood that if it fails it will free up for a future bout with Ngannou. Wilder has confirmed that discussions have taken place between the the two teams regarding a potential matchup.
Wilder stated: “At that specific date [in December], I’m not sure, but all things and anything are possible. Me and Francis have had discussions, we had meetings with both parties, as far as the team is concerned. So this is a real conversation that has been taking place, not only just amongst the combat … family, but amongst the teams as well, getting on the phone, everybody talking.”
“So this is something that can truly happen to him. So the best is yet to come overall. There’s so many things that I could say, so many things that I can try to put in words to say, but at the end of the day, we’ll see what happens when it happens. That’s the best way I can [say it] to give people a peace of mind. These things are in discussion, but we’ll see what happens and when it happens, it’s gonna be amazing.”
During a follow-up interview, Wilder addressed Ngannou directly. He even wore a set of PFL gloves.
Wilder said: “Hey Francis, you listening? We discussed this before, and we’ve got many space and opportunity to discuss once more. I’m looking for a two-fight [deal] crossing over.”
After making his professional boxing debut in 2024, Ngannou is anticipated to make his PFL debut.