UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou has begun the early stages of recovery following his recent knee surgery.

While he may be known as the baddest man on the planet, even ‘The Predator’ is at risk of getting injured in an environment like the octagon.

The 35-year-old, who beat Stipe Miocic last March to finally capture the belt, underwent surgery earlier this month for ACL reconstruction and MCL repair. It was said to have gone well but even with that being the case, it’s still expected to take up to nine months before he’s ready to get back in there and compete.

The issue was in play heading into UFC 270 when he defended the championship against Ciryl Gane. After dropping the first two rounds to his French foe, Ngannou battled back and used his new wrestling skills to grind out the decision victory.

Now, with the world watching to see what he’ll do next, Francis has posted an update to his Instagram after his first day of rehabilitation.

“It’s actually, the swelling looks better. Some of the things that can happen after surgery [include] a blood clot in the calf so it will get red, warm,” one of the trainers said. 

“If incisions and stuff get infected, it’ll get warm. So [we’re checking for] all of those kinds of things.”

Ngannou can be seen in notable pain as they run tests, check the strength of the knee and replace his bandage. After leaving the facility, he was quick to send a message of positivity to his fans.

“One day at a time, one step at a time. Not even a day!”

Will Ngannou leave the UFC?

The future of Francis Ngannou is discussed at length by MMA fans on a daily basis and understandably so. While he does have a parade of challengers rising up to go after him in the UFC’s heavyweight division, he’s made no secret of his desire to try out professional boxing.

Tyson Fury is the name on everyone’s lips after recent interactions suggested the two would be interested in fighting one another.

Of course, Fury has to get through Dillian Whyte and has also said he’ll retire after the contest, but it’s important to remember the phrase ‘never say never’ in the combat sports game.