“It's too early to leave, but he's gone,” Ngannou wrote in a social media post announcing his son's death.
Kobe, the 15-month-old son of former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, has died, the boxer said in a social media post.
Ngannou, 37, posted a black-and-white photo with his son late Monday and wrote: “It's too early to leave but he's gone. My little boy, my soul mate, and my partner Kobe was so full of life and joy.
“And now, he lies lifeless. I screamed his name over and over again but he does not respond.
“I was at my best by his side and now I have no idea who I am. Life is so unfair that it hits us where it hurts the most,” Ngannou added.
– Francis Ngannou (@francis_ngannou) April 29, 2024
After leaving the UFC, the Cameroonian-French fighter turned to professional boxing.
Ngannou was defeated by Anthony Joshua in Saudi Arabia last month, his second heavyweight defeat since switching from mixed martial arts.
Ngannou had pushed world champion Tyson Fury during a controversial points defeat in his first professional boxing match in Saudi Arabia last October.
A few hours before Kobe's death was revealed, Ngannou posted on X, without mentioning his son: “What is the point of life if what we fight so hard to get away from is what ultimately hits us hardest?
“Why is life so unfair and unforgiving?”
The martial world responded with messages of condolence.
“I am so sorry to hear of your loss Francis, my prayers are with you and your family at this time,” fellow UFC fighter Conor McGregor wrote on Channel X.
The fighter’s manager, Markelle Martin, posted: “Please be respectful of @francis_ngannou and his family during this painful time. I, along with millions (of) others, will pray for their strength.
Veteran broadcaster Michael Buffer said on social media: “The entire sports world and beyond stands devastated and painfully supportive of Francis at this time.
“Please know that millions of us are holding little Kobe in our prayers.”
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