Ahead of schedule? Francis Ngannou’s coach gives update on UFC champ’s return

UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou is, at the very least, ‘on track’ with his recovery schedule. This bit of update came from his coach…

By: Milan Ordoñez | 10 months ago
Ahead of schedule? Francis Ngannou’s coach gives update on UFC champ’s return
Bloody Elbow 2.0 | Anton Tabuena

UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou is, at the very least, ‘on track’ with his recovery schedule. This bit of update came from his coach Eric Nicksick, who relayed the information to MMA Junkie Radio in a recent interview.

“I think he’s either ahead of schedule or on track, one or the other,” Nicksick said of his prized fighter. “And from what I’ve gathered (from UFC Performance Institute staff), he’s making great strides. He’s back in the gym moving around, hitting pads and stuff.”

The 35-year-old Ngannou underwent successful knee surgery in March for an injury he sustained during his UFC 270 camp in January. He expects to be back in action towards the latter part of the year, as well as a possible showdown with Tyson Fury sometime in early 2023.

Upon his return to the UFC, Ngannou already has potential challengers lined up for him. One of which is the winner of the September 3 showdown between former interim champion Ciryl Gane and Tai Tuivasa. There’s also the long-awaited heavyweight debut of ex-perennial champion Jon Jones, who’s been preparing to officially make the jump for the last two years.

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Milan Ordoñez
Milan Ordoñez

Milan Ordoñez has been covering combat sports since 2012 and has been part of the Bloody Elbow staff since 2016. He’s also competed in amateur mixed martial arts and submission grappling tournaments.

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