Deontay Wilder says Francis Ngannou fight ‘something that can truly happen’

A boxing bout with Francis Ngannou isn’t just a fantasy, according to Deontay Wilder.

After soaking in the festivities cageside and making a brief appearance on the broadcast, the former WBC heavyweight champion made an appearance backstage at PFL 4.

Naturally, Wilder’s participation implies that the tournament-based MMA company is at least attempting to set up a fight with Francis Ngannou, its most well-known free agency signing, for a boxing battle.

For what it’s worth, Wilder seems willing. The former boxing champion considered trying MMA and giving Ngannou a boxing contest in exchange for a fight.

Backstage, Wilder told MMA Fighting that he is “99 percent” on his road to securing his next bout, which is anticipated to take place at the end of the year against fellow former champion Anthony Joshua. However, he was also aware of the likelihood that it fail, freeing him up for a potential conflict with Ngannou.

“At that specific date [in December], I’m not sure, but all things and anything are possible,” Wilder said. “Me and Francis have had discussions, we had meetings with both parties, as far as the team is concerned. So this is a real conversation that has been taking place, not only just amongst the combat … family, but amongst the teams as well, getting on the phone, everybody talking.

“So this is something that can truly happen to him. So the best is yet to come overall. There’s so many things that I could say, so many things that I can try to put in words to say, but at the end of the day, we’ll see what happens when it happens. That’s the best way I can [say it] to give people a peace of mind. These things are in discussion, but we’ll see what happens and when it happens, it’s gonna be amazing.”

“Hey Francis, you listening?” Wilder said with a smile. “We discussed this before, and we’ve got many space and opportunity to discuss once more. I’m looking for a two-fight [deal] crossing over.” (H/T – MMAJunkie.com)

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