The Intriguing Prospect of Deontay Wilder vs Francis Ngannou
Deontay Wilder and Francis Ngannou have both publicly expressed strong interest in a crossover fight, with Wilder stating in September 2025 that negotiations are ‘warming up’ and he is ‘serious, willing, ready and able’ to make the bout happen, while Ngannou has confirmed he wants Wilder to be his next opponent after his successful PFL MMA return against Renan Ferreira in October 2024.
The world of heavyweight boxing has been buzzing with the potential showdown between Deontay Wilder and Francis Ngannou, a fight that promises to bring together two of the most formidable punchers in the combat sports universe. As the anticipation builds, Malik Scott, a former professional boxer and now a respected trainer, has shared his insights into what could be one of the most explosive matchups in recent memory.
Deontay Wilder’s Perspective
According to Scott, Deontay Wilder, the former WBC heavyweight world champion, is looking at this potential bout with a mix of excitement and pragmatism. Wilder, who has already achieved significant success in his career, is motivated by the prospect of a substantial payday, a common sentiment among athletes in the later stages of their careers. The idea of fighting in Africa, bringing two “African kings” together in a monumental clash, adds a layer of allure to this proposed fight. Scott believes that if anyone can bring this fight to fruition, it’s Turki Alalshikh, hinting at the significant financial and promotional backing needed to make such an event happen.
Financial Aspects and Motivation
While the exact financial requirements for Wilder to step into the ring with Ngannou remain unspecified, Scott emphasizes the importance of a lucrative offer. Both fighters are aware of the risks involved in such a high-stakes encounter, making the financial reward a critical factor in their decision-making process. Despite any speculation to the contrary, Scott assures that Wilder’s motivation isn’t solely financial; the challenge and the opportunity to further cement his legacy are equally compelling.
Francis Ngannou’s Transition to Boxing
Ngannou’s move from the UFC to boxing has been nothing short of audacious, directly taking on the heavyweight division’s elite. Scott recounts Ngannou’s challenge against Anthony Joshua, noting that despite being knocked down, Ngannou’s power and resilience are undeniable. However, when compared to Deontay Wilder’s proven knockout power, Scott remains skeptical of Ngannou’s ability to match up. He applauds Ngannou’s courage and determination but points out the steep learning curve and the inherent dangers of facing top-tier heavyweight boxers.
Wilder’s Power vs. Ngannou’s Courage
Despite Ngannou’s formidable strength, Scott firmly believes that Wilder’s speed, technique, and power place him on a different level. If a fight between Wilder and Ngannou were to materialize, Scott predicts a victory for Wilder, drawing parallels with Ngannou’s encounter with Joshua. Preparing Wilder for Ngannou, according to Scott, would involve studying Ngannou’s limited boxing repertoire and capitalizing on his relative inexperience in the sport.
Deontay Wilder’s Future in Boxing
Amid speculation about Wilder’s next move, Scott reveals that Wilder is currently focused on personal endeavors, including real estate and family. However, he asserts that the fire for competition still burns within Wilder, hinting at a return to the ring under the right circumstances. The potential fight with Ngannou, especially if held in Africa, aligns with Wilder’s aspirations and could serve as a compelling reason for his return.
The Role of Turki Alalshikh and Prospects in Africa
Scott notes Turki Alalshikh’s transformative impact on boxing, suggesting that his involvement could be pivotal in making the Wilder vs. Ngannou fight a reality. The choice of location for the fight remains open, but Wilder’s interest in competing in Africa is well-documented, adding another layer of intrigue to the negotiations.
The Broader Impact on Boxing and Beyond
The potential matchup between Deontay Wilder and Francis Ngannou isn’t just another fight; it’s an event that could transcend the sport of boxing, drawing global attention and showcasing the rich legacy of African warriors in modern combat sports. As both fighters contemplate their next moves, the boxing world eagerly awaits what could be a historic showdown.
As discussions continue and plans potentially solidify, the anticipation for Wilder vs. Ngannou serves as a reminder of boxing’s ability to captivate and inspire, bringing together diverse audiences in celebration of courage, skill, and determination.