F. Ngannou (photo) considers himself better at striking than J. Cigano. Photo: Reproduction/Youtube ufc
The Cameroonian Francis Ngannou declared, just over a week before the duel against the Brazilian junior gypsy, who believes he has greater quality in stand-up fighting than the Brazilian. The athlete made the statement in a recent interview for an official press conference for the event taking place next Saturday (29), in Minneapolis (USA). The meeting between the fighters will mark the main fight of the card.
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Francis doesn't seem to worry about the knockout power of junior gypsy, world-renowned in the world of MMA. Considered one of the greatest boxing experts in the UFC, the Brazilian will face an opponent who is also feared for his fist strength. However, Ngannou reported that he is not worried about fighting a five-round fight against the Brazilian, since, in his opinion, the fight will end sooner.
“It doesn’t worry me (a five-round duel). Either way, I don't believe this fight will go five rounds. At this point, we still have time to adjust some things. So, everything is fine”, declared the Cameroonian.
The confirmation of the clash between Cigano and Francis stirred the comments behind the MMA scenes, since, at least in theory, the duel marks the meeting of two athletes known for ending their fights with a knockout. Júnior is world famous for his sharp boxing, perfected by trainer Luiz Dórea; while Ngannou is feared for the brutality with which he faces his opponents.
Currently, the Brazilian is in a great phase in his career. The athlete comes from three consecutive victories and, if he achieves another victory over his next opponent, he hopes to be able to fight again for the title, which he held in 2011.
The Cameroonian has also already received an opportunity to play in a duel valid for the heavyweight title (up to 120,2kg). The fight took place in January last year and, at the time, the belt holder was still Stipe Miocic. Francis was defeated by unanimous decision of the judges.
At 35 years old, Cigano has 26 fights in his MMA career, with 21 wins and five losses.
Ngannou, in turn, at 32 years old, has already played 13 times, achieving 11 triumphs and two setbacks.
UFC Minneapolis fight schedule
Heavyweight: Francis Ngannou x Junior Gypsy
Fly weight: Jussier formiga x Joseph Benavidez
Welterweight Weight: Demian Maia x Anthony Rocco Martin
Light Heavyweight: Vinicius Mamute x Roman Dolidze
Heavyweight: Maurice Greene x Junior albini
Lightweight: Drew dober x Marco Polo Reyes
Featherweight: Chas Skelly x Jordan Griffin
Light Heavyweight: Paul Craig x Alonzo Menifield
Light heavyweight: Justin Ledet x Dalcha Lungiambula
Bantamweight: Sergio Pettis x Ricardo Carcacinha
Lightweight: Jared gordon x Dan Moret
Lightweight: RooseveltRoberts x Vinc Pichel
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