Dana says Derrick Lewis will 'probably' be Francis Ngannou's next opponent

D. Lewis (photo) beat C. Blaydes in the UFC Las Vegas 19. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

UFC president Dana White appears to be inclined to schedule a rematch for the next heavyweight title fight (up to 120,2 kg). The representative stated that, 'probably', Derrick Lewis will be the next challenger for the belt Francis Ngannou. The statement was given in an interview with 'Yahoo Sports'.

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“The next challenger of Francis Ngannou will probably be the 'Black Beast' (nickname for Derrick Lewis)”, said Dana.

The controversy over the next heavyweight title challenger has been unfolding since UFC 260. Previously, Dana White had confirmed that Jon Jones would occupy the post, but changed his speech after Ngannou's victory over Stipe Miocic.

The president and the former light heavyweight champion began exchanging barbs through the press. The Ultimate president accused Jones of asking for a high purse because he was 'scared' of facing the French-Cameroonian. The veteran became irritated and even asked for hisTwitter' for the organization to dismiss him, but deleted the post shortly afterwards.

Case Derrick Lewis is confirmed as Ngannou's next opponent, the American will have his second opportunity to share the octagon with the current champion. In July 2018, the two athletes faced each other in a fight that doesn't bring back many memories for fans. The duel ended in victory for the French-Cameroonian by decision of the judges.