ANTHONY JOSHUA and Conor McGregor have led the tributes after Francis Ngannou’s 15-month-old son tragically died.
The former UFC champion turned heavyweight boxer revealed the devastating news on social media.
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And he received resounding support from the sports world.
McGregor, 35, father of four, responded on X: “I’m so sorry to hear of your loss Francis, my prayers are with you and your family at this time.
“Absolutely devastated to read this, Francisco! I can only imagine the pain you are feeling right now. I am very sorry to hear this news.
“I pray that God has the best and safest place in heaven for him until you meet again.”
Joshua, who has eight-year-old son JJ, said on Instagram: “May the memories you shared bring you comfort.”
Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, 45, who has five children, added: “I’m sorry brother.
“I can’t imagine the pain and struggle you are going through. Praying for you and your family right now!”
Ngannou, 37, rose to fame in the UFC, where he became heavyweight champion.
But last year he abandoned the MMA powerhouse to pursue boxing, facing British stars Tyson Fury, 35, and Joshua, 34.
He abandoned Fury in his boxing debut only to lose a controversial decision before being knocked out in two rounds by AJ in March.
Ngannou is believed to have earned around £15 million after putting his MMA career on hold to switch to boxing.
The Cameroonian keeps much of his personal life private, with the birth of his son Kobe also hidden from the public.
But Ngannou released a moving statement after his son’s passing, which said: “It’s too soon to leave, but he’s gone.
“My little boy, my companion, my companion Kobe was full of life and joy.
“I screamed his name several times, but he didn’t respond. How do you deal with something like that? How can you live with it?
“Please help me if you have any ideas because I really don’t know what to do and how to deal with this.”
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