As a fighter’s career inside the cage winds down, the big question often looms. What comes next? Some pivot to commentary, others dive into coaching, and a select few take on the business world. But Francis Ngannou? He’s rewriting the playbook entirely. The former UFC heavyweight champion isn’t just building his own legacy in MMA. He’s literally laying the foundation for something much bigger in his homeland, Cameroon.
“As we have seen, there is a great wealth of talent in Africa just waiting to be given a global stage,” Ngannou had said, underscoring his mission. But while fight fans speculate on his next move inside the cage, Ngannou is busy moving earth, quite literally. His latest Instagram post gave the world a sneak peek at his next project in Batie, Cameroon. “My next project in Batie is a masterpiece and very personal, so I don’t just assign it to people. I follow it closely, to the point of becoming an excavator operator. Stay tuned for what’s coming out of the ground.”
‘The Predator’ isn’t just signing checks. He’s getting his hands dirty, ensuring every detail is perfect. This isn’t new for him. Back in 2018, he launched the Francis Ngannou Foundation, dedicated to uplifting underserved communities in Cameroon. Over the years, it has provided thousands of students with top-tier school supplies, modernized dozens of schools, and even built Cameroon’s first-ever MMA-certified gym. During the COVID-19 crisis, his foundation stepped up, providing aid to over 1,000 struggling families. Now, he’s doubling down on that commitment.
And he’s not stopping at charity. Allegedly, the Professional Fighters League (PFL) is to launch an African series this year. And guess who’s leading the charge? Ngannou has been announced as the chairman, and he’s fired up about it. “I am so very proud to give back to my homeland and to provide great content to a region with such a passionate and diverse fanbase,” he said. While there haven’t been any major updates yet, it’s most likely in the works behind the scenes. It’s a massive step forward, creating a direct path for African fighters to make their mark globally, just like Ngannou did. If you thought Ngannou’s work inside the cage was inspiring, wait until you hear how fans are reacting to his latest endeavor.
Fans crown Francis Ngannou a champ ‘Inside and outside of the cage’
The internet erupted with praise, with one fan writing, “The difference in using stardom. We all seen how other champions conduct themselves.” Another fan marveled at Ngannou’s global mindset. “Great Champion. You have traveled the world and conquered it in the process. You have traveled and lived in different continents, that alone makes you a great visionary when it comes to construction.”
And, of course, there were those who couldn’t resist injecting a little humor. “That’s awesome. But if you ask me, you don’t need an excavator to lift anything if you have a Predator,” one fan quipped, referencing his nickname. Another playfully warned about construction scams. “If those builders, bricklayers, and contractors try to chop your money, just give them a Guillotine Choke.”
May 11, 2023, Los Angeles, CA, Los Angeles, CA, United States: Los Angeles, CA – May 16: L-R Peter Murray, CEO of PFL and Francis Ngannou sign the new contract at Professional Fighters League – Contract Signing at Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel on May 11, 2023 in Los Angeles, CA Los Angeles, CA United States – ZUMAp175 20230511_zsa_p175_081 Copyright: xLouisxGrassex
But perhaps the most resonant comment of all was simple. “Work Ethic + Supporting Your People = Actions Speak Louder Than Words.” Ngannou’s commitment to his people isn’t just a side project, it’s part of his DNA. And while he’s busy breaking ground in Cameroon, his fight career is still very much alive. After a wild run in boxing, where he shocked the world against Tyson Fury. And later suffered a tough loss to Anthony Joshua. He then returned to MMA with a statement. In October last year, he dismantled Renan Ferreira in round one to capture the PFL Super Fights heavyweight title, proving he’s still a force to be reckoned with.
While others wonder about life after their prime, Francis Ngannou is already building his, one brick at a time. Whether he’s wielding an excavator or his fists, ‘The Predator’ is making sure his impact lasts far beyond the fight game. What do you think of his latest move? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
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