Francis Ngannou posts heartbreaking message after tragic death of 18-month-old son

Francis Ngannou has tragically confirmed the death of his 18-month-old son in a heart-breaking message on social media.

The news was announced earlier today by Cameroonian news site 237online, with the former UFC champion and professional boxer posting a message on X following speculation.

The Cameroonian fighter had posted on X, lamenting the unfairness of life, saying: “What's the purpose of life if what we're fighting tooth and nail to get away from is what finally hit us the hardest!?

“Why is life so unfair and merciless? Why does life always take what we don't have? I'm f****** tired."

The post led the MMA and fighting world to rally around Ngannou.

Conor McGregor responded, saying: “I am so sorry to hear of your loss Francis, my prayers are with you and your family at this time.”

After further conjecture surrounding his post, Ngannou posted an update confirming the death of his son.

Also posting a graphic to Instagram, the fighter said in a statement:

“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.

💔 pic.twitter.com/aHD685fbMQ

— Francis Ngannou (@francis_ngannou) April 29, 2024

"I was my best self next to him and now I have no clue of who I am. Life is so unfair to hit us where it hurts the most. How do you deal with such a thing? “How can you live with it? Please help me if you have an idea because I really don't know what to do and how to deal with this."

The post continued to unite the fighting world behind the 37-year-old.

Former UFC champion Cris Cyborg posted a reply under both of Ngannou’s post, praying for him and his family.

She said: “Dear lord, I pray you comfort Francis and his family. Surround him with your love and ensure he is protected by your guidance as he grieves this loss.

“Give him the strength to know that heaven is eternal and they will be together soon as this life is just a blink of an eye.”

The 37-year-old’s story to success is an inspirational one.

Ngannou was raised in poverty in Cameroon, beginning work in a sand mine at 10 years old.

After resisting several invitations from local gangs growing up, he began training in boxing at 22, and moved to France with no money, no home, and knowing no one.

In his time with the UFC, Ngannou became Heavyweight champion of the world, and later inspirationally almost defeated Tyson Fury in his first ever professional boxing bout.

MMA journalist Aaron Bronsteter confirmed the news earlier this evening, adding:

"A report from Cameroonian outlet @237online is reporting that Francis Ngannou's 18 month old son has passed away.

"Sadly, I can confirm that this is the case.

"Francis have overcome so much in his life and to have to overcome something as tragic as this is truly devastating."