On this day four years ago, Francis Ngannou spoiled Cain Velasquez's octagon return with huge knockout

On February 17, 2019, Francis Ngannou continued his reign of terror in the heavyweight division and scored a knockout against the legendary Cain Velasquez just 26 seconds into the fight.

Despite being riddled with injuries, the former UFC heavyweight champion came into his bout against 'The Predator' in good health but was quickly dispatched early on in the first round. While many expected him to showcase his wrestling, the veteran had his octagon return spoiled by the sheer power of his opponent.

Cain Velasquez was out of competition for almost three years prior to stepping in against the always-dangerous Francis Ngannou. Although he has a strong grappling pedigree, it wasn't enough to overwhelm the power puncher on the night.

With losses to Stipe Miocic and Derrick Lewis still fresh on his mind, many believed the NCAA Division I wrestler could wear on Ngannou's gas tank and make him revert to the poor performances we witnessed from his two losses.

This wasn't the case, and his world record for punching power was on full display in the matchup. While he unsurprisingly has a number of 'Performance of the Night' bonuses from the UFC, the Cameroonian rather shockingly wasn't awarded one for his destruction of the former champion.

The loss signaled Velasquez's last foray into mixed martial arts, and the loving father has instead dedicated himself to the world of professional wrestling in his old age. Francis Ngannou went on to win four more fights under the UFC banner, successfully winning and defending the heavyweight throne during that time.

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What's next for Francis Ngannou?

Since becoming a free agent following his release from the UFC, Francis Ngannou has had a number of opportunities presented to him, with Bellator, PFL, and BKFC all clambering to earn the knockout artist's signature.

While they remain a possibility, it seems as though the 36-year-old has his mind made up and is ready to step into the ring and make his professional debut in the sport of boxing.

Ngannou has his eyes firmly set on a long-awaited clash against Tyson Fury, but with the Brit deep in talks to face Oleksandr Usyk next, the former UFC champion will have to settle for a different opponent. Deontay Wilder and Dillian Whyte are two standout names who have both expressed interest in the bout.