Francis Ngannou Challenges Jake Paul's Heavyweight Ambitions Amid Rising Rivalry
"I just want to give him some slaps" - Francis Ngannou fires back at Jake Paul and mocks his heavyweight ambitions
Sportskeeda
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Francis Ngannou has criticized Jake Paul’s ambitions in heavyweight boxing, expressing skepticism about his credibility following recent callouts. The rivalry, which has intensified over the past year, is marked by contrasting career paths and exchanges, with Ngannou willing to confront Paul more directly now.
- 01Francis Ngannou doubts Jake Paul's credibility in pursuing heavyweight boxing.
- 02Ngannou expressed a desire to confront Paul, saying he wants to 'give him some slaps.'
- 03Both fighters faced Anthony Joshua, with Ngannou losing in March 2024 and Paul in December 2025.
- 04The rivalry has escalated with direct exchanges at press events.
- 05Ngannou is set to return to MMA in May 2026, promoted by Paul's Most Valuable Promotions.
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Francis Ngannou, the former UFC champion, has publicly challenged Jake Paul's ambitions in heavyweight boxing, questioning the validity of his claims. In a recent interview with 'The Schmo,' Ngannou expressed his frustration, stating, 'I just want to give him some slaps,' referring to Paul’s persistent talk despite his knockout loss to Anthony Joshua in December 2025. The rivalry has grown over the past year, transitioning from a shared association in the Professional Fighters League to a more personal feud marked by direct exchanges. Ngannou highlighted the differences in their experiences, dismissing Paul’s arguments as exaggerated. Despite their rivalry, both fighters' paths remain intertwined, as Ngannou is scheduled to return to MMA in May 2026, with the event promoted by Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions. His last MMA fight resulted in a first-round knockout victory over Renan Ferreira in October 2024.
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