Nigerian nightmare among guests as Francis Ngannou buries son
Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou bid a tearful farewell to his 15-month-old son, Kobe, at a funeral held on Friday.
The sorrowful occasion drew the presence of notable sports figures, including Nigerian-American mixed martial artist Kamarudeen Usman and Cameroonian football legend Samuel Eto’o.
The heartbreaking news of Kobe’s passing was shared by Ngannou on his Instagram earlier in the week, sending shockwaves through the sports world.
Despite his recent transition from the UFC octagon to the boxing ring, Ngannou received an outpouring of support from fellow athletes and celebrities alike.
Kamaru Usman, also known as the “Nigerian Nightmare,” and Samuel Eto’o joined the somber gathering to pay their respects to Ngannou and his family. Their presence highlighted the profound impact of Kobe’s passing on the sports community, transcending boundaries of sport and nationality.
The unity and solidarity displayed by Usman, Eto’o, and other mourners underscored the bond shared among athletes in times of grief.
Ngannou’s loss resonated deeply with those in the combat sports community, as evidenced by the continued expressions of sympathy from figures such as Tony Bellew, Cain Velasquez, and Manny Pacquiao.
The attendance of Usman and Eto’o at Kobe’s funeral reflected a reciprocal gesture of support, as Ngannou had previously been present to offer condolences to Eto’o during his father’s funeral in Ngambe.
