What’s next for ‘The Predator’? It’s a question that sparks curiosity among combat sports fans. After shaking up both the MMA and boxing worlds, Francis Ngannou stands at a unique crossroads. Should he return to the cage, where he’s already cemented a legendary legacy? Or will he take another swing at the boxing ring, perhaps against someone like Deontay Wilder, ‘The Bronzer Bomber’? Or is there something even more meaningful on the horizon?

“Really, the sky is the limit for Francis,” said Randy Couture in an interview with Inside Fighting, acknowledging Ngannou’s boundless potential. “Is he gonna go back and try his hand back at boxing? I know Eric (Nicksick) is pushing him to stay in MMA, I mean that’s a dance with the one that rung you, right?” Couture’s remarks highlight the value of staying grounded while embracing new opportunities. For the French Cameroonian that balance between legacy and reinvention could define the next chapter of his career.

Ngannou has not ruled out another boxing venture, especially after his thrilling debut against Tyson Fury. Speaking to TMZ Sports, he affirmed his interest in a showdown with Deontay Wilder. “Since we spoke, nothing has changed,” Ngannou said, making it clear the fight remains on his radar.”In my vision, if I only have a couple of fights left, I would like that to be one of them.”

Yet, Ngannou also hinted that he would wait to see if the PFL presents other opportunities for him in MMA. After all, his recent performance, knocking out ‘Problema’ Renan Ferreira in one round, demonstrated his enduring dominance in the cage and serves as a reminder of his dual-threat status across combat sports.

The 38-year-old legacy extends beyond cage or ring. His groundbreaking approach to fighter negotiations, including paving the way for better deals for fighters like Alex Pereira, has earned widespread praise. Couture marveled at this aspect of Ngannou’s career, asking, “Who in the hell negotiates their opponent’s purse? I’m sure Pereira is thanking him for that right now.” Indeed, Ngannou’s influence is about more than just his personal achievements, he’s reshaping the playing field for others.

Francis Ngannou shaping his legacy through a broader impact

Ngannou’s story has always been personal, rising from homelessness to becoming a global superstar – his struggles shaped his vision to create opportunities for others. His ambitious plan to launch PFL Africa in 2025 is a cornerstone of that mission. “He wants to create opportunities for other athletes like him so they don’t have to go to jail and do all the things that he went through,” Couture explained. By building infrastructure and pathways for African Fighters, Ngannou is redefining MMA’s global reach.

Still, questions linger. Does Ngannou’s warrior spirit remain ignited enough to return to the grind of fight camos and cage battles? Or is his focus shifting toward leaving a lasting legacy through leadership and infrastructure? As Couture put it, “At the end of the day, those are questions only Francis can answer.”

Francis Ngannou’s balancing act between legacy-building and competition sets him apart. Whether he pursues another boxing triumph or focuses on shaping the future of African MMA, his story transcends titles and accolades. One thing is clear, Francis Ngannou’s journey is far from over.

What do you think Ngannou’s next move should be? Should he continue to dominate in combat sports, or focus on shaping the future of African MMA? Let us know in the comments below!