“Let the Man Do What He Wants to Do”: Former World Champion Remains Brutally Honest on Why Francis Ngannou Should Not Be Ranked in the Top 10

Rarely in the history of boxing have opinions before and after a boxing match been so contrasting. Just a week ago, experts, fans, and casuals alike had pushed Francis Ngannou aside as a massive underdog, destined to lose against Tyson Fury. However, in an extremely surprising turn of events, after Ngannou’s Saturday night performance, he is being considered to be ranked among the top ten Heavyweight boxers. 

The former UFC Heavyweight champion gained notoriety after nearly ruining Tyson Fury’s highly decorated career. While Fury has become the center of ridicule, Ngannou’s career is blooming, so much so that Ngannou facing Deontay Wilder has become a possibility. What’s even more impressive is that Ngannou may feature among the top ten best Heavyweight boxers. However, the same sentiment is not shared by former world champion Shawn Porter. In his recent podcast, Porter went into detail on why Ngannou should not be featured in the list. But not for the reason one might think!

Shawn Porter thinks Francis Ngannou should find safe fights

While talking about the Fury vs. Ngannou fight, Porter suggested that Ngannou should not be ranked. Because if Ngannou wants to fight again, there is nothing anyone can do to stop him. “Let the man do what he wants to do if he wants to get back in the boxing ring. He’s gonna do it anyway. Doesn’t require him getting rank[ed]…,” said Porter. 

‘Showtime’ went on to assert that if Ngannou’s contract with PFL prospers, he should consider taking on a few less challenging opponents to build momentum. “I got a feeling if things work out contractually for him in the PFL…what he should do is find safe fights,” Porter claimed. According to Porter, after fighting two easy bouts, he should go for a rematch with Tyson Fury. “Get you good two eight-rounders and go back…get this Tyson Fury rematch on,” said Porter.

Jon Jones on Ngannou’s Saturday night performance 

Francis Ngannou and Jon Jones have been long-time rivals, with talks of the two clashing in the octagon. Jon ‘Bones’ Jones is currently recovering from a major shoulder injury, but that has not stopped the pugilists from exchanging verbal jabs. ‘Bones’ is expected to defend his UFC Heavyweight title against Stipe Miocic sometime in 2024.

However, Jones recently turned to X (formerly Twitter), commenting on the Fury vs. Ngannou crossover fight. The UFC Heavyweight champion complimented Ngannou and the fight’s competitive nature. “I thought he did great. I’m glad the fight was competitive,” wrote Jones. He went on to suggest that the fight opens up numerous doors for other fighters to compete against each other. “Opens so many doors for everyone in the future,” wrote Jones.

Also Read: “Literally Beat Fury, Should Be in the Top 10”: Francis Ngannou’s BoxRec Ranking Following Debut Controversial Fight Against Tyson Fury Sparks Debate Among Fans

With Ngannou presenting elite-level boxing skills in the fight against Tyson Fury, he might be ranked among the top ten best Heavyweights. However, Shawn Porter doesn’t share that opinion for the above-mentioned reason. What do you think about Porter’s claim? Do you think Ngannou should be featured among the top ten?

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