Roy Jones Jr. on Ngannou’s Boxing Return
In December 2024, Roy Jones Jr. commented on speculation that Francis Ngannou might face a former WBC heavyweight champion under professional boxing rules. No bout was booked; Jones was discussing a hypothetical matchup. Ngannou has since returned to competition in the cage, knocking out Philipe Lins in May 2026.
Jones’s view of a possible matchup
Jones told Covers he favored Ngannou’s possible opponent because of his experience under professional boxing rules and punching power. He also said Ngannou could make the fight difficult if he kept the opponent’s right hand from landing cleanly. These were comments about speculation, not advice for an announced bout.
What happened after the speculation
Ngannou’s first two professional boxing matches were in October 2023 and March 2024. He lost the first by split decision and the second by knockout. He did not have the speculated matchup after those comments.
On May 16, 2026, Ngannou returned to competition in the cage against Philipe Lins at the Rousey vs. Carano event. Ngannou won by first-round knockout at 4:31.
Sources: Jones interview and hypothetical matchup comments · Lins fight result
Sources
Tags: Boxing, Combat Sports
