Francis Ngannou is facing a tragedy that no parent should ever have to endure.
First reported by 237online.com after learning of the situation from journalist Joseph Essamathe, the former UFC heavyweight champion’s 15-month-old son has passed away. No additional details have been revealed at this time.
As the news started to make the rounds of social media, Ngannou wrote a message that seemingly confirmed the tragic turn of events.
“What’s the purpose of life if what we’re fighting tooth and nail to get away from is what finally hit us the hardest!? Why is life so unfair and merciless? Why does life always take what we don’t have? I’m fucking tired,” Ngannou posted.
What's the purpose of life if what we're fighting tooth and nail to get away from is what finally hit us the hardest!?
Why is life so unfair and merciless?
Why does life always take what we don't have? I'm fucking tired— Francis Ngannou (@francis_ngannou) April 29, 2024
Not long after, he shared another heartbreaking message.
“Too soon to leave but yet he’s gone,” Ngannou wrote on X. “My little boy, my mate, my partner Kobe was full of life and joy. Now, he’s laying without life. I shouted his name over and over but he’s not responding. I was my best self next to him and now I have no clue of who I am. Life is so unfair to hit us where it hurts the most.
“How do you deal with such a thing? How can you live with it? Please help me if you have an idea because I really don’t know what to do and how to deal with this.”
— Francis Ngannou (@francis_ngannou) April 29, 2024
The MMA Community Rallies Around Francis Ngannou
Ngannou received an outpouring of support from the MMA community, including Irish megastar Conor McGregor who offered his condolences to ‘The Predator’ and his family during this trying time.
“I am so sorry to hear of your loss Francis, my prayers are with you and your family at this time,” McGregor wrote in response.
I am so sorry to hear of your loss Francis, my prayers are with you and your family at this time ❤️🙏
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) April 29, 2024
Ngannou’s longtime coach Eric Nicksick also commented on the situation, asking everyone to keep Ngannou and his family in their thoughts.
“It’s been a heavy few days, words can’t express the pain we all feel for the Ngannou family during this time,” Nicksick shared. “Please keep Francis and his family in your heart, and may this be a reminder of the fragility of life. Say “I love you,” more often, tomorrow isn’t guaranteed.”
It’s been a heavy few days, words can’t express the pain we all feel for the Ngannou family during this time. Please keep Francis and his family in your heart, and may this be a reminder of the fragility of life. Say “I love you,” more often, tomorrow isn’t guaranteed. ❤️ https://t.co/V6QVzbXKVi
— Eric Nicksick (@Eric_XCMMA) April 29, 2024
On behalf of everyone with MiddleEasy, we extend our condolences to Francis Ngannou and his family.
