Francis Ngannou has criticized the UFC for its promotion of Tafon Nchukwi as the “sole Cameroonian fighter in UFC history.” The disagreement between Ngannou and his former promotion escalated when he noticed a misleading graphic after UFC Vegas 78. Despite leaving the UFC to join the PFL and prepare for a boxing match with Tyson Fury, Ngannou couldn’t ignore the misinformation surrounding Nchukwi’s background. On social media, Ngannou clarified that he and Thierry Sokoudjou were both fighters from Cameroon who preceded Nchukwi in the UFC. Ngannou also shared a photo of himself holding the UFC heavyweight title along with the Cameroonian flag, emphasizing his heritage.
While it’s plausible that the graphic was a simple error, this incident further highlights the ongoing public feud between Ngannou and the UFC. Even after leaving the organization to explore opportunities elsewhere, Ngannou hasn’t refrained from openly expressing his discontent with the UFC. Ngannou’s claims about Sokoudjou being the first Cameroonian fighter in the UFC are accurate, with Sokoudjou making his UFC debut in 2007, followed by Ngannou’s entry in 2015. Nchukwi became the third Cameroonian fighter to join the UFC when he entered the promotion in 2020 after participating in Dana White’s Contender Series.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cameroonian fighters
What is the main issue between Francis Ngannou and the UFC?
Francis Ngannou has expressed disagreement with the UFC for promoting Tafon Nchukwi as the “only Cameroonian fighter in UFC history” despite Ngannou and Thierry Sokoudjou being earlier fighters from Cameroon in the UFC.
Why did Francis Ngannou leave the UFC?
Francis Ngannou left the UFC as a free agent to sign with the PFL and pursue a boxing match with Tyson Fury.
Who was the first Cameroonian fighter in the UFC?
Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou was the first Cameroonian fighter to compete in the UFC, making his debut in 2007.
How did Ngannou respond to the misinformation about Cameroonian fighters?
Ngannou corrected the error on social media, emphasizing that both he and Sokoudjou preceded Nchukwi as Cameroonian fighters in the UFC.
What did Ngannou share on social media to clarify the situation?
Ngannou shared a photo of himself holding the UFC heavyweight title alongside the Cameroonian flag, underscoring his heritage.
How did Tafon Nchukwi become involved in the UFC?
Tafon Nchukwi joined the UFC in 2020 after appearing on Dana White’s Contender Series. He became the third fighter from Cameroon to compete in the UFC.
