"He will definitely be challenged" - Francis Ngannou highlights an overlooked factor while weighing in on Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic clash

Francis Ngannou is days away from the biggest fight of his life as he takes on Tyson Fury in a heavyweight boxing match this Saturday. While the odds are stacked against him, there's another lopsided matchup on the horizon, and it is from the Cameroonian phenom's old stomping grounds: the UFC.

Stipe Miocic is scheduled to challenge heavyweight champion Jon Jones for divisional supremacy at UFC 295. The bout was first teased after 'Bones' defeated Ciryl Gane for the vacant 265-pound strap back at UFC 285. Ahead of what will be Jones' first heavyweight title defense, Miocic's chances have been written off.

However, according to Ngannou, Jones will not have as easy a time against Miocic as many anticipate. Instead, 'The Predator' believes that Jones' inexperience as a heavyweight could lead to a tougher fight. The former heavyweight kingpin said as much (at 7:59 minutes) in an exclusive interview with CBS Sports:

"This is also a different weight class for Jon Jones. This is heavyweight and I think it's slightly different than light heavyweight. I agree that Jon Jones is the best at light heavyweight, but I think at heavyweight he definitely will be challenged."

Francis Ngannou has personal experience fighting Stipe Miocic, having first lost to the all-time great 265-pounder in lopsided fashion. He then avenged his loss with a thunderous knockout at UFC 260, which marked Miocic's most recent outing inside the octagon.

Meanwhile, Ngannou was once expected to welcome Jon Jones to the UFC heavyweight division prior to his departure from the promotion. While the pair's matchup never took place, they did take part in an impromptu face-off at PFL 5, not long after Ngannou signed with the rival promotion.

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When is Francis Ngannou's PFL debut?

Back in May, Francis Ngannou stunned the MMA world by announcing that he had signed a contract with the PFL. While much has been made about the Cameroonian's various perks, such as being an equity owner and the chairman of PFL Africa, not enough has been said about his promotional debut.

Due to the current pursuit of his boxing dreams, there's nothing official yet about his upcoming PFL debut. Back in May, his debut with the promotion was projected for mid-2024. Unfortunately, no potential opponents have been identified.