Kobe, the 15-month-old son of former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, passed away, the boxer said on social media.
Too soon to depart but still he’s gone, Ngannou, 37, said beside a black and white snapshot he shared late on Monday. Kobe, my lover, my mate, and my little kid, was vivacious and joyful.
“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,” Ngannou added.
The French Cameroonian fighter transitioned to professional boxing after quitting the UFC. Anthony Joshua defeated Ngannou last month in Saudi Arabia, marking his second loss at heavyweight since making the crossover from mixed martial arts.
In a contentious points loss in his debut professional boxing battle in Saudi Arabia in October, Ngannou had shoved world champion Tyson Fury.
Kobe’s cause of death
The news of Kobe’s passing came as a shock to the world. However, the exact cause of Francis Ngannou’s death isn’t still known, according to Yahoo sports. Francis Ngannou only shared
Condolences from the fighting world
Before Kobe’s death was made public, Ngannou wrote on X a few hours earlier, making no mention of his son: “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?”
The fighting community responded with condolences.
Conor McGregor said “I am so sorry to hear of your loss Francis, my prayers are with you and your family at this time,” on X.
Marquel Martin, the manager of Francis Ngannou posted: “Please respect @francis_ngannou and his family during this traumatic time. I along with millions (of) others will be praying for their strength.”
Michael Buffer, a seasoned ring announcer, stated on social media:
“The entire world of sports and beyond stand crushed and painfully supportive with Francis at this time.
“Please know that millions of us embrace little Kobe with our prayers.”