by Kelly Eric Ehor | Oct 25, 2024 | Africa, Boxing, International, Other Sports
PFL heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou recently opened up about the immense grief he endured following the passing of his young son, Kobe, earlier this year. Ngannou admitted that, in the depths of his sorrow, he questioned whether he would ever fight again. He returned to mixed martial arts in a highly anticipated showdown against Renan Ferreira, where he secured a victory with a powerful takedown and ground-and-pound, capturing the PFL heavyweight title.
In a post-fight interview, Ngannou revealed that the heartbreak almost led him to retire from fighting. He explained the emotional turmoil that filled his thoughts, wondering if his family’s misfortune was an unlucky streak or even a curse. “This was by far the hardest training camp of my life,” he shared, noting the struggle to keep going while grieving.
Ultimately, Ngannou found strength in his late son’s memory. He dedicated the victory to Kobe, viewing his return as a way to honor him. “Fighting gave me something to focus on, a chance to fight for him, even if he couldn’t be here to see it,” he reflected.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Oct 25, 2024 | Africa, Boxing, International, Other Sports
Dana White recently shared his stance on Francis Ngannou’s departure from the UFC, suggesting that Ngannou left for financial gain and to avoid facing Jon Jones. White revealed that he nearly cut Ngannou from the UFC roster following two consecutive losses early in his career, but was convinced by a colleague to keep him. The two have had ongoing tensions since Ngannou left the UFC after contract disagreements, despite White reportedly offering him $8 million. Ngannou, now with the Professional Fighters League (PFL), recently made a successful MMA return and a high-profile boxing debut against Tyson Fury. Despite a split decision loss to Fury, Ngannou reportedly earned $10 million, followed by another $20 million from his subsequent match with Anthony Joshua.
Ngannou’s current PFL contract allows him to pursue boxing, a deal White has criticized, claiming Ngannou would have made more if he stayed in the UFC. White also downplayed the PFL’s popularity, comparing it to his Power Slap venture and questioning the organization’s viability in contrast to the UFC. He emphasized that Power Slap’s social media reach and engagement figures significantly surpass those of the PFL, suggesting the UFC has no reason to collaborate with its competitor.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Oct 25, 2024 | Athletics, International, Other Sports
Glasgow will host the 2026 Commonwealth Games, featuring a more compact selection of 10 sports. Events like track cycling, athletics, swimming, and boxing remain, while badminton and hockey are excluded. The Games will take place across four venues from July 23 to August 2, 2026, with the Scottish city stepping in after Australia’s Victoria withdrew due to costs. Approximately 3,000 athletes from 74 Commonwealth nations are expected to participate, with para-sports integrated across six disciplines.
The event will have a reduced budget of £114 million, with £100 million funded by the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) and contributions from the UK government. Half a million tickets are set to be available, and existing venues, including the Emirates Arena and Scotstoun Stadium, will host events, with no new facilities being built.
Katie Sadleir, CGF’s chief executive, expressed confidence in the Games as a cultural and athletic celebration. However, some sports communities, particularly badminton and hockey, have voiced disappointment. The streamlined model may serve as a template for the Commonwealth Games’ future as the city, renowned for hosting major sporting events, prepares for the challenge.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Oct 25, 2024 | Africa, Nigeria, Other Sports
The highly anticipated grand finale of the 2024 Nigerian Rugby League is set for Saturday, November 16, in Abuja. This showdown will see the Lagos Bulls and Kano Lions, the top teams from the South and North Conferences, go head-to-head for the league’s ultimate title.
In the Northern Conference, Kano Lions claimed the top position over competitors Zazzau Bulls, Zaria Bees, and Kano Gazelles. Meanwhile, Lagos Bulls emerged as leaders in the South-West Conference, outperforming teams like Eko Trinity, R2 Finesse, Lagos Rhinos, Lagos Haven, and De Kings.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Oct 25, 2024 | Africa, Boxing, International, Other Sports
Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has revealed that Anthony Joshua’s next opponent will be either Daniel Dubois or Tyson Fury. Joshua, who is striving to reclaim a world title after his recent loss to Dubois at Wembley Stadium, may face Dubois again on February 22, 2025. This rematch date has been suggested by Dubois’ promoter, Frank Warren, though he has doubts about Joshua’s readiness due to potential fitness concerns.
Another possibility on the horizon is a long-awaited bout with Tyson Fury. Fury, currently preparing to fight Oleksandr Usyk in December, could be a major contender for Joshua in the summer of 2025, especially if he emerges victorious. Hearn emphasized that they are focused solely on a match with either Dubois or Fury, with no other fights or warm-ups planned.
Joshua’s comeback strategy is now contingent on timing, training, and whether the rematch with Dubois or the showdown with Fury offers the clearest path to the heavyweight title.
