Cristiano Ronaldo to become UFC fighter? Combat legend Francis Ngannou backs CR7 for new career due to 'dedication and discipline'

Despite turning 40, Ronaldo remains an elite athlete and his hunger for success has not diminished as he continues to deliver outstanding performances for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.

Ngannou believes that Ronaldo’s mentality, work ethic and commitment to excellence could have made him a formidable presence in the Ultimate Fighting Championship if he had chosen a different career path. Ngannou, who has competed at the highest level of combat sports, is known for his immense dedication and perseverance. According to him, these same traits are evident in Ronaldo’s approach to football, making the five-time Ballon d’Or winner a natural fit for professional fighting.

In an interview with Sportsbook Review, Ngannou said: "[Ronaldo] loves combat sports. I think Cristiano is the kind of guy that maybe when he was younger you could have said doesn't have the attributes to be a player. But he's such a hard worker, disciplined and focused on what he wants. I think he has even the only attribute that you need to become a fighter. Dedication and discipline.”

The admiration between Ngannou and Ronaldo extends beyond mutual respect, as the two sports icons have formed a genuine friendship. Their first meeting took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2023, when they happened to be staying at the same hotel. Ngannou recalled how he was initially sceptical when a member of Ronaldo’s entourage informed him that the Portuguese superstar was a fan of his. Unsure if it was some sort of prank, Ngannou was surprised when Ronaldo personally invited him to his hotel room.

“[Ronaldo and I] do have a very good relationship," he said. "I went to Saudi for the first time two years ago and I had the opportunity to meet Cristiano, he was in the pool with his family and we were there for like 45 minutes just chatting next to the pool and stuff and it just felt very genuine. We looked like people that knew each other for a very long time but it was the very first time and it was one of those times you have to pinch yourself like: ‘This is Cristiano, right?’. ‘Yes, it’s really Cristiano’. From then we picked it up on DM’s from time to time on Instagram and then he asked for my number. “

Ronaldo's insatiable drive for success ensures that he remains one of the most competitive athletes in the world. As he continues to defy age and expectations, speculation has grown regarding his long-term plans. Reports suggest that the Al-Nassr captain is on the verge of signing a contract extension, which would keep him in Saudi Arabia until 2026 - a deal that could allow him to participate in the next World Cup.