Francis Ngannou has been told by former opponent Curtis Blaydes that he can compete with the best boxers following his UFC exit.
Ngannou, 36, is now a free agent after refusing to re-sign with the UFC despite several new contract offers from the promotion. UFC boss Dana White has confirmed the organisation has waived their right to match any offer that former heavyweight champion Ngannou receives, and that he is free to sign with any rival MMA promotion or crossover to boxing.
Despite being told by former boxing world champion Tony Bellew that he "wouldn't survive" in the ring, Ngannou's former opponent Blaydes thinks differently. The American, who has lost twice to Ngannou in the past, thinks Ngannou's knockout power means he could have a chance again top heavyweights such as Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury.
