Emotional Francis Ngannou fights tears over death of son Kobe ahead of MMA return as rival appears to take sick swipe

FRANCIS NGANNOU fought back tears as he opened up on the death of his son Kobe – while his rival appeared to take a sick swipe.

Ngannou revealed the tragic news in April that his 15-month-old son Kobe tragically passed away.

It was only one month after he was knocked out by boxing star Anthony Joshua, 34, in Saudi Arabia.

Ngannou, 37, has taken time out before announcing a return to MMA to fight 6ft 8in Brazilian Renan Ferreira, 34, on October 19.

The former UFC champion spoke out to emotionally discuss fighting on in the wake of his devastating loss.

Holding back tears, he said: “I have questioned if I have to continue or if I should just hang up the gloves.

“But then I realised that should be a purpose for me you know.

“I didn’t have the chance to fight for my son, man. So I think this is it.”

Later in the press conference, Ferreira looked to take a disrespectful dig at Ngannou.

Speaking through a translator, Ferreira said: “He has been going through a tough year in his life, but the toughest challenge in his life and in his year is gonna be me.

“I’m gonna be the biggest problem of his year right now. It’s a tough puzzle for him to figure out.”

Ferreira later reiterated in press statements that he was referring to Ngannou’s recent boxing losses and not his personal tragedy.

He told ESPN: “I respect Francis greatly and his family. I meant in the cage.”