Francis Ngannou recently paid tribute to his 15-month-old son, Kobe, expressing his deep sorrow over the unexpected loss. The former UFC champion and now boxer, who has faced opponents like Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, shared his emotions on social media. He wrote, “Too soon to leave but yet he’s gone. My little boy, my mate, my partner Kobe was full of life and joy. Now, he’s laying without life. I shouted his name over and over but he’s not responding. How do you deal with such a thing? How can you live with it? Please help me if you have any idea because I really don’t know what to do and how to deal with this.”
Ngannou’s post followed an earlier expression of despair on X, where he questioned the purpose of life amidst such tragedy: “Why is life so unfair and merciless? Why does life always take what we don’t have? I’m f***ing tired.”
Details about Ngannou’s personal life and Kobe’s mother remain private. Among the first to respond to his post was Conor McGregor, who offered his deepest sympathies, stating, “No parent should ever have to go through this 💔.” He was echoed by Joshua, who hoped that memories would bring comfort.
Support also came from fans worldwide. One expressed, “Stay strong, Francis. Surround yourself with loved ones as much as you possibly can. The world is here for you.” Another shared condolences and prayers, while a third wished peace and blessings.
Ngannou, who was the UFC Heavyweight champion from 2020 to 2023, left the organization to pursue boxing, where he faced Joshua and others. Despite the challenges in his sports career, Ngannou’s life story—from working in Cameroonian sand mines as a child for mere pennies, to homelessness in Paris—underscores his resilience and strength. His journey from adversity to the peak of combat sports reflects his indomitable spirit and character.
