Ngannou plans to fight Wilder in 2026

Francis Ngannou has publicly called for a heavyweight boxing match against Deontay Wilder, with plans to take place in 2026. The former UFC heavyweight champion expressed his interest during an appearance on the Ariel Helwani Show.

When asked if a fight with Wilder is something he is pursuing, Ngannou said, “Yes. I do,” and added, “We haven’t engaged personally. But [we’ll talk to Wilder’s team] soon”.

Ngannou’s boxing record includes a split decision loss to Tyson Fury in October 2023, where he managed to knock Fury down, and a knockout loss to Anthony Joshua in March 2024.

After the Joshua fight, Ngannou returned briefly to MMA, winning a first-round knockout over Renan Ferreira in October 2024. Despite his setbacks in boxing, Ngannou is motivated to continue pursuing high-profile matches and has identified Deontay Wilder as his prime target for a comeback fight.

A former WBC heavyweight title holder, Wilder has had a mixed recent record, losing four of his last six fights but securing a stoppage win over Tyrell Anthony Herndon back in June.

Wilder’s manager, Shelly Finkel, has indicated that Wilder is open to the fight with Ngannou in 2026, stating to Sky Sports, “Deontay would be open to that fight [against Ngannou] next year.” This suggests that negotiations or discussions could begin soon to arrange a match between the two heavy hitters.

Both fighters are past their respective primes, as Wilder clocks 40 this October while Ngannou turns 40 next September. They are, however, still regarded as the two men who can punch the hardest. So, a fight between them will settle the question of who’s tougher between the two. 

Ngannou’s focus on Wilder comes after UFC icon Jon Jones blocked a potential crossover fight, leaving Ngannou to pursue boxing options instead.

Ngannou maintains a good relationship with the PFL, where he still has contractual ties, but his immediate goal is to push his boxing career with a golden opportunity against Wilder.