Three boxing fights Francis Ngannou is eyeing in 2025

Francis Ngannou’s transition into professional boxing has been far from understated. 

Following high-profile losses to Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, Ngannou is determined to reset and explore new opportunities in the sport. This comes alongside his effort to solidify his mixed martial arts legacy with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) after departing from the UFC in 2023.

Ngannou’s last boxing bout took place in March 2024 against Joshua, and since then, he has been linked to several prominent names in the heavyweight boxing scene. Each proposed opponent promises a unique challenge and an opportunity for Ngannou to further establish his authority in the ring.

Deontay Wilder

Ngannou has made no secret of his desire to face former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder. Both fighters are known for their devastating power, and Ngannou believes their bout would be a thrilling contest, likely ending in a dramatic knockout. 

The Cameroonian has actively called out Wilder, who, at 39 years old, is nearing the end of his career. Wilder has faced difficulties in recent years, suffering four losses in his last five fights, including a unanimous decision defeat to Joseph Parker in December 2023 and a knockout loss to Zhilei Zhang in June 2024.

Wladimir Klitschko

Another potential opponent for Ngannou is retired heavyweight legend Wladimir Klitschko. Klitschko has reportedly considered a comeback in pursuit of breaking George Foreman’s record as the oldest heavyweight champion in history. 

This matchup would contrast Ngannou’s raw power with Klitschko’s technical skill, offering an intriguing clash between two different boxing eras. However, Klitschko’s return is far from certain. While he has been deeply involved with Ukraine’s ongoing war, he has yet to confirm whether he will re-enter the sport.

Derek Chisora

Derek Chisora has also been mentioned as a possible opponent for Ngannou. After securing his 36th career win against Otto Wallin in what was his 49th fight, Chisora appears to be focusing on more lucrative bouts against fighters like Oleksandr Usyk, Anthony Joshua or Daniel Dubois. 

Chisora even displayed images of these potential opponents following his last fight, signaling his interest in a high-profile matchup for his landmark 50th contest. As a result, the momentum for a Ngannou vs. Chisora fight seems to have faded, if it was ever a serious possibility.

While a fight between Ngannou and Chisora remains a potential outcome, recent developments suggest that Chisora is pursuing other opportunities in the heavyweight division.