Francis Ngannou Mourns Death of 15-Month-Old Son

A terrible tragedy has struck Francis Ngannou and his family.

According to Cameroonian news outlet 237online.com, Ngannou’s 15-month-old son recently died unexpectedly. The cause of death is currently unknown. Ngannou released a statement on social media that seemed to address the tragedy.

“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?” Ngannou wrote. “I'm f—ing tired.”

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

Ngannou’s manager, Marquel Martin, and Eric Nicksick, his coach at Xtreme Couture, also expressed their condolences via social media on Monday.

Please respect [Francis Ngannou] and his family during this traumatic time,” Martin wrote on X. “I along with millions of others will be praying for their strength.”

Please respect @francis_ngannou and his family during this traumatic time 🙏🏾 I along with millions others will be praying for their strength🙏🏾 🕊️ #perspective #WhatReallyMatters

— Marquel Martin (@Marquel_Martin) April 29, 2024

“It’s been a heavy few days, words can’t express the pain we all feel for the Ngannou family during this time,” Nicksick wrote. “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

Ngannou last competed in a boxing match against Anthony Joshua on March 8 in Saudi Arabia, where he suffered a second-round knockout loss in his second professional appearance. “The Predator” made waves when he battled heavyweight champ Tyson Fury to a split decision in his Sweet Science debut this past October. The former UFC heavyweight champion is currently under contract with Professional Fighters League to compete in MMA, though it remains unclear when his debut might occur.

💔 pic.twitter.com/aHD685fbMQ

— Francis Ngannou (@francis_ngannou) April 29, 2024

Editor's note: This item was updated at approximately 5:08 p.m. ET to accurately reflect the age of Ngannou's son following a social media post from the fighter.