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'Heart Is Shattered' - UFC Legend Breaks Silence On Tragic Accident

Originally posted on The Spun | By Tzvi Machlin | Last updated May 2, 2025 6:00 PM ET

Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou has been off the grid recently in the aftermath of a terrible accident in Yaoundé, Cameroon that resulted in the death of a 17-year-old girl.

But on Friday, the UFC legend and MMA superstar broke his silence on the tragedy.

Ngannou had reportedly been driving in the streets of Yaoundé when he struck the woman. He transported her to the hospital and gave financial assistance so she could receive medical treatment, but the girl ultimately succumbed to her injuries.

In a statement shared with TMZ, Ngannou expressed his profound sorry for the motorcycle accident. He said that he's been with the family and offering support to them through the time while helping to share their grief.

Ngannou said that he will always carry the pain with him.

"From the very beginning, I have been by the family's side, offering support, comfort, and deepest condolences during this time."

"I've met with them privately to share in their grief, and I will continue to stand with them every step of the way."

"I carry their pain with me, and my unwavering thoughts and support remain with them as they face this heartbreaking loss."

The past 13 months have been one tragedy after another for the former UFC heavyweight champion. Last year, his 15-month-old son Kobe died from a brain malformation.

But Ngannou bounced back in a big way from that personal tragedy, winning the the inaugural PFL Super Fights Heavyweight Championship in PFL Super Fights: Battle of the Giants with a first-round knockout of Renan Ferreira in October. Ngannou would dedicate that win to his son afterwards.

"I can't think about anything other than my son, Kobe," Ngannou said after his win. "I took this fight for him. Without Kobe, I wouldn't be here fighting. Please remember my son's name."

"I tried to tell myself to be strong and keep moving but it was very hard," he said. "But I didn't miss a step. I wasn't worried about it. As soon as I walked in the gym for MMA, everything was still in me. I just had to manage my emotions and deal with life."

We wish Ngannou and the family of the 17-year-old girl all the best.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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